Two killed as fires rage on Greek island of Salamina, evacuation ongoing
Two fires broke out minutes apart on the Greek island of Salamina near Athens, killing two people. Around 90 residents have been evacuated by sea as nearly 200 firefighters battle the blazes.
Two people have died after two separate fires ignited within minutes of one another on the Greek island of Salamina, located just west of Athens. An evacuation of residents is currently under way.
The first fire was reported at 14:40 local time and spread quickly due to strong winds. Local authorities noted the island had been placed under a high wildfire risk warning for the day.
Rescue operations
A coastguard spokesman told Greek broadcaster ERT that roughly 90 people have so far been evacuated by sea. Five patrol boats were dispatched to the area, with several private vessels also being made available to help with the effort.
Nearly 200 firefighters are working the scene, supported by a number of aircraft and 50 fire engines. Salamina's deputy mayor, Thodoris Zannis, said crews were focused on stopping the flames from crossing a mountain on the island, which could merge the two fires into a single, larger wildfire.
About the island
Salamina lies just off the coast west of Athens and is home to around 37,000 residents, many of whom are elderly.
The fires come as firefighters across Europe battle a wave of wildfires this weekend, driven by intense heat.
