Greece has escalated its wildfire alert level to \"high risk\" after a surge of blazes erupted over the weekend, sparking concerns about another devastating summer. 🌡️ The civil protection ministry reported 71 fires across agricultural and forestry zones in just 12 hours Saturday, with one blaze in Crete raging until Sunday midday. Three people suffered minor injuries, and a suspect was arrested for allegedly starting the Lasithi fire.
💨 Strong winds up to 60 km/h are expected until Tuesday, worsening conditions in Athens, central Greece, the Cyclades islands, and Crete. Authorities warn the gusts could turn small sparks into uncontrollable infernos, prompting emergency teams to brace for the worst.
🌍 Climate scientists sound alarms as Greece battles extreme weather patterns: winter temperatures hit a record 11.8°C average, drying out landscapes. Last summer’s heatwave – which killed 20 people and torched 175,000 hectares – looms large in public memory. With April temps already hitting 31°C in Crete, locals fear a repeat disaster.
\"This isn’t just a Greek problem – it’s a Mediterranean crisis,\" said one researcher. As global temps rise, could this become the new normal? Stay tuned for updates. 🚨
