A major wildfire that broke out on Monday afternoon in the Ano Souli area of Marathonas was reportedly triggered by an unusual source — a magpie that struck a power utility pole, causing sparks that ignited nearby vegetation.

According to firefighting crews on the scene, the bird collided with a wooden power pole operated by HEDNO (Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator). The impact resulted in a fire outbreak, which quickly spread to the surrounding forest land. The remains of a charred magpie were found just meters from St. Raphael’s Monastery, confirming the source of the ignition.

The wildfire broke out at approximately 1:30 PM, prompting an immediate large-scale response. Fire authorities mobilized:

• 140 firefighters
• 5 ground teams
• 38 fire engines
• 11 firefighting aircraft
• 7 helicopters
• Numerous volunteers and municipal water tankers

The blaze has since been brought under control, with no reported injuries or structural damage.