Greece’s Civil Protection Authority has issued a very high wildfire risk warning (Category 4) for six regions of the country on Friday, August 22, 2025. The alert covers large parts of eastern and southern mainland Greece, as well as the island of Crete.
Regions at high risk
The areas under heightened alert include:
Thessaly (Larissa, Magnesia)Central Greece (Fthiotida, Fokida, Viotia, Evia)Attica, including the island of KythiraWestern Greece (Achaia)Peloponnese (Corinth, Argolis, Laconia, Arcadia)Crete (Chania)Emergency measures
Firefighting services have moved to Stage 2 of operational readiness, deploying aerial patrols and increased ground surveillance by fire, police, and military units. Local fire departments in the affected regions are on partial standby, while a national protection plan has been activated.
Among the measures is a preventive ban on vehicle traffic and public access to national parks, forests, and other vulnerable areas.
Public guidance
Officials are urging the public to avoid any activities that could accidentally spark fires, such as burning dry vegetation, using outdoor grills, welding, or discarding lit cigarettes. The burning of fields is strictly prohibited during the fire season.
Citizens are also reminded to immediately call the fire service at 199 if they spot smoke or flames.