A heatwave has settled over Greece, pushing temperatures to dangerous levels and intensifying discomfort through a combination of extreme heat and high humidity. Authorities remain on high alert for wildfires, with the fire risk remaining elevated across most of the country on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.
High Fire Danger Forecast
According to the Fire Risk Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection — part of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection (civilprotection.gov.gr) — a high fire danger level (Category 3) is expected for 35 regions nationwide on Tuesday. These include:
- Attica & Kythira
- Boeotia
- Euboea & Skyros
- Phthiotis & Phocis
- Aetolia-Acarnania & Thesprotia
- Preveza & Arta
- Trikala & Larissa
- Magnesia & Evros
- Rodopi & Kilkis
- Thessaloniki & Chalkidiki & Mount Athos
- Argolis & Corinthia
- Elis & Messenia & Laconia
- Sporades Islands
- Northeastern Aegean Islands
- Ionian Islands
- Crete
- Cyclades & Dodecanese
- Ioannina & Karditsa & Serres & Achaea & Arcadia
Enhanced Readiness Measures
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has alerted relevant state agencies, regional authorities, and municipal governments in these areas to maintain heightened civil protection readiness. This ensures rapid response should any wildfire incidents occur.
The Hellenic Fire Service has placed personnel in the affected regional units on partial standby to meet increased operational demands. Additionally, the Fire Service’s Operational Readiness Plan has been escalated to Stage 2. Aerial surveillance patrols will be intensified, alongside ground patrols conducted jointly by fire service, police, and military units.
Preventive Restrictions in Place
In line with the National Civil Protection Plan for Forest Fire Risks, preventive measures are now active in all high-risk zones. Among them is a temporary ban on vehicle access and public presence in national forests, woodlands, and other vulnerable natural areas.
Public Safety Guidance
The Fire Service urges citizens to exercise exceptional caution in rural and forested areas. Activities that could inadvertently spark fires must be strictly avoided — including burning dry grass or pruning debris, using spark-emitting tools such as angle grinders or welding equipment, operating outdoor barbecues, smoking near flammable vegetation, or discarding lit cigarettes.
Authorities also remind the public that during the official fire prevention period, strict regulations apply to open-air burning and related activities — violations may carry legal consequences.