Sixteen people were injured and dozens of houses burned down in a wildfire that engulfed the Greek region of Achaea on Sunday.
The fire, which broke out on Saturday afternoon near Patras, located west of the capital city of Athens, quickly spread due to strong winds and reached the coastal areas within a few hours. The victims were transferred to hospitals due to breathing problems. Residents of nearby villages were asked to evacuate.
290 firefighters and 77 fire engines were sent to extinguish the fire, aided by eight planes and helicopters, the fire service said.
Greece experienced 56 wildfires on Friday and Saturday, fueled by a combination of dry weather, heat and strong winds. Most of the fires were extinguished early, said Civilian Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis.
Authorities have warned that the heatwave currently scorching Greece could trigger wildfires across the country. According to meteorologists, the peak of the heat is expected on Monday, when temperatures will range from 42 to 46 degrees Celsius, and may last until at least Friday.
