Greece wildfires: Another blaze breaks out on Evia island

Greece’s fire department has sent aircraft and firefighters to the country’s second largest island of Evia after another wildfire broke out

ATHENS, Greece -- Greece’s fire department sent helicopters and firefighters to the country’s second-largest island of Evia on Monday, while the coast guard readied boats in case a sea evacuation became necessary as yet another forest fire broke out that was fanned by strong winds. This month, which began with Greece’s most severe heat wave in about three decades, is quickly turning into one of the country’s most destructive fire seasons, with dozens of wildfires breaking out every day across the country. Thousands have been forced to flee the flames, which have devoured forests, agricultural land, homes and businesses. Evia has been particularly badly hit, with a major blaze burning for more than 10 days in the island’s north, destroying tens of thousands of hectares from coast to coast. One volunteer firefighter has died, and at least four more have been hospitalized with burn injuries.