Andrea Powell
The mainland and several islands in Greece are engulfed in flames as firefighters battle over 100 active wildfires.
The drought conditions, strong winds, and severe heatwave are only fueling the fires and sparking new ones. According to BBC, over 150 new fires have developed in the past 24 hours, forcing mass evacuations and rescue operations.
Rescue boats arrive to help people evacuate the popular islands of Chios and Zakynthos as well on the beachfront of Achaia. Watch the video below of Greek Red Cross volunteers helping people and pets that were forced into the water to escape the fast-moving fires.
Countless people and pets are displaced as the flames continue to spread and destroy homes, towns, and thousands of acres of land.
Nearly 5,000 firefighters are battling the fires from the ground and in the air, but the weather conditions are not in their favor. Volunteers continue to rush to the aid of injured people and pets.
Watch as Red Cross volunteers offer water to two dogs they rescued near one of the wildfires.
Animal Action Greece posted, “The wildfires are never ending. As we write this, wildfires are still burning in Chios, Zakynthos, Filippiada, Kefalonia and across Achaia – with soaring temperatures increasing the risk of flare-ups in multiple regions.” They said the “need is urgent”.
Our partner, Greater Good Charities, is already on the ground mobilizing humanitarian and animal/pet aid to those in need. Donate today to help people and pets displaced by these devastating fires.
Read more articles by Andrea Powell.
