A large-scale firefighting operation is underway in Aspropyrgos, located west of Athens, following the outbreak of a wildfire in a forested area on the slopes of Mount Poikilo. The blaze, which began at approximately 15:29, is currently spreading in a southerly direction.
The Hellenic Fire Service has significantly reinforced its presence at the scene, deploying a total of 108 firefighters. The ground response includes 27 vehicles and six specialized teams from the 1st EMODE special wildfire unit. Aerial support is also playing a critical role, with five aircraft and six helicopters currently operating, including one dedicated to coordination. Local assistance is being provided by water tankers dispatched from the municipalities of Aspropyrgos, Fyli, Petroupoli, and Peristeri.
Public safety measures were enacted via the 112 emergency alert system. An initial alert was sent at 16:03 to warn residents in the wider area, followed by a second message at 16:22 that ordered the evacuation of Afaia Haidariou and Ano Dasos Haidariou. Residents were instructed to evacuate toward Peristeri via Athinon Avenue. An earlier advisory had also placed the surrounding population on standby.
Authorities have confirmed that the region is currently classified under Category 4, denoting a very high risk for wildfire activity. To monitor the situation, the Fire Service's Operations Coordination Centre (ESKEDIK) has been utilizing a drone equipped with thermal and optical cameras to receive continuous imagery. Meanwhile, the Western Attica Arson Crimes Investigation Unit has been activated to determine the exact cause of the fire.
