Attica has been placed under a State of Alarm (Category 5) due to extreme fire risk. Following forecasts of gale-force winds reaching 9 Beaufort, the City of Athens has closed Lycabettus Hill and Finopoulos Hill to all visitors and vehicles until further notice.
High-Tech Surveillance and Patrols
To safeguard the capital's green spaces, Municipal Police are deploying drones equipped with thermal cameras. These aerial units will monitor high-risk zones, including Strefi Hill, Philopappou, Tourkovounia, and the Ilisia area. The thermal sensors are designed to detect sudden temperature shifts, allowing for the early identification of potential fire outbreaks.
Furthermore, the Municipal Police Operations Center will operate on a 24-hour basis, coordinating with the Fire Service. Water tankers and emergency crews from the city's sanitation and greenery departments are on standby.
Precautionary Measures and Public Advice
Specific fire protection measures have been activated for the municipal summer camps in Agios Andreas, involving specialized water cannon vehicles and 4x4 units. The municipality has issued a strong recommendation for citizens to avoid any outdoor activities involving open flames or sparks, such as welding, metal cutting, or the use of torches.
Wind Peak Forecast
The Risk Assessment Committee, chaired by General Secretary for Civil Protection Nikos Papaefstathiou, warned that conditions will remain critical through Saturday. Friday, August 14, is expected to be the peak of the phenomenon, with winds locally reaching 9 Beaufort in eastern Attica and southern Evia. A gradual weakening of the winds is anticipated starting Sunday.
