A wildfire broke out outside the village of Agios Athanasios in Thessaloniki on Sunday afternoon, July 12, 2026. According to the Hellenic Fire Service, the fire is burning low vegetation, dry grass, and debris in the area — but, as of now, does not threaten nearby homes.
Emergency Response Underway
Firefighting forces were deployed immediately, including ground and aerial units. A total of 35 firefighters were mobilized, along with one hiking team from the 2nd Emergency Response Unit (2nd EMODE), and 10 fire engines. Two helicopters were also dispatched for aerial support.
Water tankers from the Thessaloniki municipality assisted in the operation. Throughout the incident, the National Crisis Management and Coordination Center (ESKEDIK) monitored the situation in real time using drone footage — equipped with both optical and thermal imaging cameras.
Public Alert Issued
An alert was issued at 6:02 p.m. via Greece’s national emergency number, 112, informing residents in the wider area about the fire.
Investigation Launched
A team from the Thessaloniki Division of the Arson Investigation Unit has been dispatched to the site to determine the cause of the blaze.