A large wildfire has broken out in a forested area in Ano Souli, Marathon, Attica.

According to the Fire Department, the fire started around 1:30 PM. So far, 140 firefighters have been deployed to battle the blaze, supported by 5 ground teams, 38 fire engines, volunteers, as well as 11 aircraft and 7 helicopters operating from the air. Water tankers from local municipalities are also assisting.

Initial reports indicate that the fire is burning near the Monastery of Saint Raphael.

Speaking to protothema.gr, Marathon’s Deputy Mayor for Civil Protection, Mr. V. Kyparissis, stated that shortly after 3 PM, aerial firefighting efforts had managed to contain the flames to some extent, while ground forces were simultaneously establishing control lines, creating some room for optimism.

The Monastery of Saint Raphael has not been evacuated and is not currently at risk, Mr. Kyparissis said. “There is no immediate danger to residential areas or homes,” he emphasized.

Authorities have instructed residents of Ano Souli to evacuate toward Grammatiko, while residents in Marathon are being directed toward Nea Makri. Moderate winds are blowing in the area, reaching up to 5 Beaufort (approx. 30-40 km/h), further complicating firefighting efforts.

Massive Firefighting Operation Underway

According to the Hellenic Fire Service, the fire started around 1:30 p.m. Over 120 firefighters have been deployed, supported by 5 ground teams, 30 fire engines, volunteers, 10 aircraft, and 7 helicopters. Additional water tankers from local municipalities are assisting in the operation.

Early reports indicate that the fire is burning near the Monastery of Saint Raphael.

The operation is being coordinated by the mobile operations center “OLYMPOS” which has moved on-site. Volunteer units and heavy machinery from the Attica Region are also supporting the firefighting efforts.

Traffic Disruptions in the Area

Due to the blaze, traffic has been suspended on Monastiriou Street, from the intersection with Grammatiko Avenue in the Ano Souli area.

Favorable Wind Conditions Offer Some Hope

Meteorologist Kolydas commented that: “A positive factor is that winds in the Kato Souli – Marathon area are not expected to intensify significantly.”