LAST UPDATE: 15:21
The wildfire that started in Varnavas on Sunday afternoon is still burning in Eastern Attica on Monday morning, fueled by strong winds reaching 7-8 Beaufort and spreading over a front of more than 20 kilometers.
The fire department reported on Monday morning that the firefighting efforts are challenging due to the constantly changing wind direction. The main areas of concern are Grammatiko, Penteli, and the Anatoli settlement in Nea Makri. Currently, there are 560 firefighters, 16 forest commando teams, and 177 vehicles combating the flames, along with 32 aircraft (17 airplanes and 15 helicopters) providing air support.
Evacuation orders were issued early Monday morning for Nea and Palia Penteli, Drafi, Dioni, Damarasi, Daou Penteli, Agios Spyridonas, and Anatoli in Nea Makri. Two hospitals in Penteli and the monasteries of Agios Ephraim and Penteli were also evacuated. The police assisted in evacuating individuals at risk from the fires.
One firefighter sustained injuries while battling the fire in Marathon, suffering 2nd degree burns to his hands and legs. He was first taken to the Nea Makri health center and then transferred to the 251 Air Force General Hospital.
The Monastery of Panagia Axion Esti engulfed by wildfires
The historic Monastery of Panagia Axion Esti in the Varnava area was engulfed by the devastating wildfire. This monastery, belonging to the Archdiocese of Athens, suffered significant damage as the fire advanced rapidly through the area. The monastery houses valuable treasures and ecclesiastical relics of great cultural and religious significance.
Despite the prompt response from the fire brigade, deploying firefighting planes and ground forces quickly, the strong winds worsened the situation, leading to a massive wildfire with multiple fronts.
Due to the escalating danger, evacuation orders were issued for residents of nearby settlements, including Stamata, Mikrochori Oropos, Grammatiko, Rodopoli, and Amygdaleza Stamata. The fire continues to threaten both the monastery and the surrounding communities.
Evacuation of Monasteries of Saint Ephraim and Penteli as wildfires ravage Northern Attica
The Monasteries of Saint Ephraim in Nea Makri and Penteli have been evacuated as an uncontrollable wildfire sweeps through Northern Attica. The fire, now reaching Mount Pentelicus, spans over 20 kilometers with changing winds complicating firefighting efforts.
A total of 510 firefighters are working to contain the blaze, supported by 32 aerial firefighting vehicles, including helicopters and aircraft. The focus is on protecting lives, properties, and the historic monastic sites.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
