Greece is gearing up for a challenging wildfire season, deploying a record number of firefighters and increasing its drone fleet to combat the escalating risks associated with climate change. With rising temperatures and reduced rainfall, officials are taking proactive measures to protect communities and natural resources.
Key Takeaways
- Greece will deploy 18,000 firefighting personnel this summer, including seasonal staff and volunteers.
- The drone fleet for fire surveillance has increased from 45 to 82 in two years.
- Wildfire damage has surged, with 2023 seeing nearly three times the average area burned compared to the previous decade.
- International support from five European countries will assist local firefighting efforts.
Record Deployment of Firefighters
Civil Protection Minister Ioannis Kefalogiannis announced that Greece will mobilize 18,000 firefighters this summer, marking a significant increase in personnel. This includes both permanent and seasonal staff, supported by thousands of volunteers. The minister emphasized the challenging conditions expected this year, stating, "It is clear that the conditions this year will be particularly difficult."
Advanced Technology in Firefighting
To enhance firefighting capabilities, Greece is nearly doubling its drone fleet, which will now consist of 82 drones. These drones will be utilized for real-time surveillance and coordination of firefighting efforts. Fire Chief Lt. Gen. Theodoros Vagias highlighted the importance of advanced technologies, saying, "The climate crisis is here to stay, and we must be more effective in surveillance, preparedness, and how we mobilize our resources."
Rising Wildfire Risks
The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in Greece are alarming. According to data from the European Union’s Forest Fire Information System, wildfire damage reached 1,745 square kilometers in 2023, nearly three times the average area burned between 2011 and 2020. This trend reflects the growing impact of climate change on fire seasons, with rising temperatures and lower rainfall exacerbating conditions.
International Support and Collaboration
In response to the escalating wildfire threat, Greece will receive assistance from around 300 firefighters from various European countries, including France, Romania, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Moldova. This support is part of a European Union prepositioning program aimed at bolstering local firefighting teams during peak fire season.
Preparedness Exercises
Firefighters recently conducted a drill south of Athens to test Greece’s evolving wildfire response strategies. The exercise involved coordinated water drops from fire planes and drone-assisted ground operations, simulating real-life scenarios such as evacuating a children’s summer camp threatened by wildfires. This drill showcased the integration of advanced technologies and multi-agency collaboration in firefighting efforts.
As Greece braces for a potentially devastating wildfire season, the combination of increased personnel, advanced technology, and international support aims to enhance the country’s resilience against the growing threat of wildfires. The proactive measures taken by the government reflect a commitment to safeguarding both lives and the environment in the face of climate change challenges.
Sources
- Greece launches record-breaking fire operation, expects grueling summer, Yahoo.
- Greece deploys record firefighters and more drones for wildfire season, AP News.
- Greece boosts wildfire response with more firefighters and drones, International Fire & Safety Journal.
