Heavy Lightning Sparks Two Fires on Greek Island of Thassos: Watch

The picturesque Greek island of Thassos was struck by heavy lightning on Wednesday, igniting two significant fires that have since demanded a substantial firefighting effort. 

This incident comes just a day after firefighters successfully controlled wildfires driven by unusually strong winds on two other islands, highlighting the ongoing challenges Greece faces with wildfires this season.

Over 32 firefighters, supported by 13 fire engines, one aircraft, and two helicopters, are currently battling the flames engulfing forest land on two fronts on Thassos. 

Located in the northern Aegean Sea, approximately 306 km (190 miles) north of Athens, Thassos has called for additional reinforcements from the nearby city of Kavala to assist in the firefighting efforts throughout the day.

The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in Greece have been largely attributed to climate change, with scientists noting that these fires often disrupt the crucial summer tourism season. 

Millions of visitors flock to Greece's islands during the summer months, but the rising temperatures and dry conditions have turned these idyllic destinations into potential hotspots for wildfires.

While rainfall typically brings relief to regions suffering from prolonged dry spells, the accompanying lightning in this instance exacerbated the situation on Thassos. 

The resulting fires have put significant strain on local resources, requiring swift and coordinated action from the firefighting teams.

Greece’s civil protection service has issued warnings for more extreme weather on Wednesday and Thursday, predicting storms with high lightning activity and hail, particularly affecting central and northern Greece. 

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis had earlier warned of a dangerous summer ahead, with a prolonged drought and unusually high winds setting the stage for a potentially catastrophic wildfire season.

The recent fires on Thassos are a stark reminder of last year's devastating wildfires in northern Greece, which resulted in the deaths of 20 people and forced 19,000 to evacuate the island of Rhodes. 

To mitigate the risk and detect fires early, Greece is increasingly utilizing drones to monitor forest areas. 

This technological advancement, combined with international support, aims to bolster the country’s firefighting capabilities.

From July to September, Greece will receive assistance from around 240 firefighters from countries including Bulgaria, Malta, Moldova, and Romania. 

This support, according to a statement from the civil protection ministry released on Tuesday, is part of a broader effort to enhance Greece’s response to wildfires during the critical summer months.

As Thassos continues to battle the fires sparked by the heavy lightning, the efforts of the firefighters and the resilience of the local community are being tested once again. 

The situation underscores the urgent need for robust climate action and preparedness to safeguard lives, property, and the natural beauty of Greece's islands in the face of escalating environmental challenges.