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Forest fires break out at 68 locations in Greece

Forest fires break out at 68 locations in Greece Forest fire breaks out at different locations in Greece. July 24, 2023 (AA Photo)
By Anadolu Agency
Jul 20, 2024 3:18 PM

Greece is grappling with a heatwave that has sparked forest fires at 68 locations nationwide.

Authorities have issued an ‘orange alert’ because of the ‘high fire risk’ of scorching temperatures in many regions.

Affected by a heatwave from Africa, Greece is experiencing tough times.

Given the extreme heat, citizens were advised to stay indoors, and outdoor workers were granted the right to stop working in temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit).

Employers who make their workers labor in such conditions face a fine of €2,000 per worker.

Officials reported that several regions have been put on ‘orange alert’ because of the ‘high fire risk’ from the intense heat.

Greece’s Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Vasilis Kikilias, announced that 68 forest fires broke out yesterday.

“The prolonged heatwave and drought are making the work of firefighters more challenging. There were 68 forest fires across the country yesterday,” Kikilias stated in a social media post.

Last Updated:  Jul 20, 2024 3:19 PM