Improved situation in Akraifnio

The situation in Akraifnio has improved, with firefighting forces continuing suppression efforts. Meanwhile, aerial firefighting aircraft are expected to cease water drops within the next few minutes.

22/06/2026 20:26

Video of successive aerial water drops in Akraifnio

22/06/2026 20:13

Athens–Lamia Highway reopened in both directions

22/06/2026 19:49

Mayor of Orchomenos on the Akraifnio fire: Large in scale, with continuous flare-ups due to strong winds

According to Mr. Giorgos Tzavaras, the village of Akraifnio is not in danger.

Speaking to ANT1, he stated that the fire is moving toward Lake Yliki and the Athens–Lamia National Highway, while a livestock facility has been burned.

22/06/2026 19:42

Improved picture of the fire in Thessaloniki

22/06/2026 19:24

Photos from the fire in Thessaloniki

22/06/2026 19:03

Map showing traffic diversions in Boeotia

• To extinguish the fire in Akraifnio, 118 firefighters are operating with 6 foot patrol teams and 27 vehicles, while from the air 11 aircraft and 5 helicopters are deployed, one of which is coordinating the operation.
• As announced by the Fire Service, due to low visibility from smoke, the Athens–Lamia National Road has been closed.
• Traffic on the Athens-bound direction is being diverted from the Kastro interchange (115th km) to the Thebes interchange (90th km), while on the Lamia-bound direction traffic is being diverted from the Thebes interchange (90th km) to the Kastro interchange (115th km).
• A precautionary 112 alert was sent shortly before 16:00 to those in Akraifnio, urging them to remain on standby and follow the instructions of the Authorities.
• A 112 alert was also issued due to smoke and the fire in Thessaloniki.
• Fire Service units in Central Greece remain on general alert.

Four arrests for negligent fires in Boeotia, Larissa, Halkidiki, Thessaloniki

The competent investigative units of the Fire Service have proceeded with four arrests for negligent fires that broke out in areas of Halkidiki, Thessaloniki, Boeotia, and Larissa.

According to the Fire Service, in all four cases the fires posed a risk to nearby areas or installations, leading to immediate intervention and investigation by the relevant investigative services of the Fire Corps. After the completion of the preliminary investigation, those responsible were arrested under the framework of the in flagrante (autoforo) procedure.

It is noted that from 1 January to 22 June 2026, a total of 458 administrative fines have been imposed, amounting to €489,969.945 in total, while 115 arrests have been made under the in flagrante procedure, of which 109 (94.78%) concern negligence and 6 (5.22%) intent.

(upd)

The wildfire that broke out earlier on Monday afternoon (22/6) in a forested area in Akraifnio, Boeotia, is still burning out of control.

The Athens–Lamia National Road is also closed at the height of Akraifnio in both directions due to the fire and the thick smoke.

Specifically, according to the Traffic Police, vehicle traffic on the Athens-bound direction is being diverted from the Kastro interchange (115th km) to the Thebes interchange (90th km). On the Lamia-bound direction, traffic is being diverted from the Thebes interchange (90th km) to the Kastro interchange (115th km).

Detailed announcement by Nea Odos:

“Nea Odos informs drivers that a bilateral traffic diversion is in effect from the Thebes Interchange to the Kastro Interchange (km 89–114) due to a fire. Due to this diversion, vehicles passing through the Thebes Main and Side Toll Stations are exempt from paying toll fees.

Nea Odos has taken all necessary measures for the safety and service of drivers, while relevant temporary signage has been placed to fully inform all road users. Nea Odos thanks drivers for their understanding and urges caution, as they must fully comply with the road signage.”

See videos from the scene:

It is noted that shortly before 16:00, a 112 alert was sent to those in the area to remain on standby: “Forest fire in the Akraifnio area of the Boeotia Regional Unit. Stay on standby and follow the instructions of the Authorities,” the message stated.

Firefighting forces have been reinforced and now 118 firefighters are operating with 27 vehicles and 6 foot patrol teams, while from the air 11 aircraft and 3 helicopters are operating, one of which is coordinating operations.

Strong winds in the area are hampering firefighting efforts.

As announced by the Fire Service, Fire Departments in Attica and Central Greece have been placed on general alert.

It is noted that the fire that broke out in a farming area in Eleonas Thebes has been brought under control, according to a later update by the Fire Service.

The fire started around 13:25 without threatening residential areas. 37 firefighters are operating on site with 2 foot patrol teams and 11 vehicles, while from the air 2 aircraft and 1 helicopter are assisting. Local water tankers are also providing support.

LamiaReport.gr: Forest fire in Akraifnio

The Athens–Lamia National Road closed due to the fire in Akraifnio, Boeotia — where traffic is being diverted: 118 firefighters and 14 aerial units are operating

Photos and videos: Seasonal Firefighters, tvstar.gr, lamiareport.gr, E-sterea.gr