Athens, Aug. 17 (SANA) Two people were killed and nine others injured as fires swept parts of Greece’s Salamis Island near Athens on Sunday, forcing authorities to evacuate hundreds of residents.
Two bodies were recovered from the Peristeria beach area in the south of the island, AFP reported, citing a Greek fire service spokesperson. Greece’s state news agency said nine people required medical treatment for severe burns.
Fire service deputy spokesperson Yannis Artopios said hundreds of people were evacuated after fires broke out almost simultaneously in Peristeria and Selinia in the south and east of the island.
Around 200 firefighters and 50 vehicles were deployed to battle the blazes, supported by six aircraft and seven helicopters. The Greek coast guard also sent five patrol boats to the area.
Greece has faced major wildfires since late July. Scientists say human-caused climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires by intensifying drought and other extreme weather conditions.
R.D/ABD
