Fires in Greece Spiralled Out of Control: Horses Fled the Flames, More Than 100 Homes Destroyed

Witnesses in Greece captured dramatic footage of a herd of horses galloping across smoke-filled fields as they fled a rapidly spreading forest fire north-west of Athens. The video quickly spread across international media and social networks, becoming one of the most striking symbols of the destructive force of the disaster.

A large-scale fire broke out in Western Attica and, fanned by strong winds, began rapidly spreading towards populated areas. Authorities ordered the urgent evacuation of several villages and resort areas, including Porto Germeno. Residents had to leave their homes in haste, taking not only their families but also pets, horses and livestock with them.

According to Greek civil protection services, the fire destroyed more than 100 homes and burned through forest areas, farmland and outbuildings. Hundreds of firefighters, dozens of vehicles and aircraft were deployed to fight the blaze, but the work of planes and helicopters was repeatedly hampered by powerful gusts of wind.

Tragedy struck during the firefighting operation when two firefighting helicopters collided in mid-air. Two crew members — citizens of Greece and Denmark — died in the crash. The incident occurred during a complex operation in conditions of dense smoke and severe turbulence.

Firefighters continue to battle isolated pockets of fire. Investigators are considering a malfunction in a power line as one of the main possible causes of the blaze. Authorities have already detained several suspects in a case involving possible negligence that may have led to the fire.