An updated analysis based on data from the European Union's Copernicus Rapid Mapping Service and the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) shows that more than 480,000 decares of land in the western Attica region have burned in major forest fires between 2018 and 2026.
The latest major fire broke out in Porto Germeno, Greece, on 31 July 2026, and has not yet been completely extinguished. Current calculations of the burned area are based on satellite data obtained until noon on 2 August.
Total land burned in western Attica due to major forest fires between 2018 and 2026.
Meteorological impact and spread
Kostas Giannaros, a fire meteorology expert at Greece's National Observatory, stated that the Porto Germeno fire reached a size that created its own air current. He noted that the flames continued to advance despite relatively weak winds.
Giannaros said the fire continued to spread by following the region's topography and vegetation, adding that August is the most critical period of the year for fire meteorology.
The final damage assessment will be updated after the fire is fully brought under control.
