Greece orders mass evacuations in Athens as wildfire engulfs towns

A massive evacuation is underway in Athens suburbs on Monday as a major forest fire engulfs the northern part of the Greek capital.

Hundreds of firefighters are on the ground trying to extinguish the raging fire.

Dozens of water-dropping planes were also involved in efforts to quell the fire. 

Flames towered over 25 metres (80 ft) at times burning homes and destroying the properties in its way.

According to Fire Department officials, winds are making it difficult for the firefighters. 

Power cuts were reported in several parts of Athens. 

Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Monday that authorities are faced with an exceptionally dangerous fire.

The fire was burning mainly on two separate fronts, with some parts difficult to reach on the mountain northeast of Athens, Kikilias added. 

A children’s hospital, a military hospital, a children’s home and two monasteries were evacuated by Monday afternoon.

Alerts were issued to people in the affected regions to evacuate as the fire rages on.