(Athens) Two large forest fires burned Sunday near Athens, the Greek capital. Authorities sent emergency messages urging some residents to evacuate and others to stay home and close their windows to protect themselves from the smoke.
The first fire, southeast of Athens, ignited early in the afternoon. Local authorities said at least four houses and several cars were set on fire. No casualties were reported as of 6 p.m. local time.
The fire was approaching the port of Lavrio, about 60 kilometers southeast of Athens. The region has suffered from wildfires in recent years. A small forest to the south, near Cape Sounion, could also be in danger.
A second, fast-moving fire broke out later north of Athens, near the suburb of Stamata. It burned through brush and forests and up Mount Penteli, one of four mountains surrounding the capital region.
A total of 230 firefighters, 17 planes and 12 helicopters were trying to extinguish the two fires, the fire department said. The planes and helicopters can only operate during the day.
Hot, dry weather, combined with strong winds, is helping the fires spread. Temperatures, in the low 30s Celsius, are expected to rise on Monday and Tuesday.
Forest fires have become an annual phenomenon in the Mediterranean. Earlier this month, Greece and Turkey grappled with large blazes.