More than 130 wildfires across Greece spark new summer season warning

Greece’s fire brigade has issued warnings to citizens and especially farmers to exercise caution and be on alert after a spate of 130 wildfires on the weekend.

According to authorities most fires have been put out with remaining ones under control and none a cause of particular concern.

Fires include one that broked out in Avlona, Attica on Saturday afternoon, which is not yet under control, and is burning through forest in a ravine far from inhabited areas. Also still alight are two fires on the island of Crete, at Lira in Monemvasia and Riza, Xylokastro, burning forest and agricultural land.

Authorities believe the rash of fires have been fuelled by strong winds, while warning that setting fires, either intentionally or through negligence, remains an automatically prosecutable offence during winter months as well. It advised people to avoid agricultural jobs involving fire in conditions that are favourable for fires spreading.