The Hellenic Coast Guard resumes search and rescue operations on the coasts of Agios Andreas – Kokkino Limanaki – Mati as well as in the wider marine region of Rafina, following the disastrous fire that erupted near Athens on Monday, killing over 70 people.
The Coast Guard was mobilized to provide assistance to tourists and local residents who were trapped on smoke-covered beaches, waiting for boats to rescue them, after two subsequent wildfires broke out on the Geraneia Mountain near the seaside town of Kineta, about 50 km west of Athens, and in the mountain of Penteli, northeast of the Greek capital.
One helicopter and a total of 14 vessels are deployed at the moment, including one offshore vessel and its inflatable speedboat, one patrol vessel of the Abeking type, 10 patrol boats and one lifeguard vessel, as well as several private vessels.
According to the latest data provided by the Coast Guard, more than 700 people have been gathered so far from shores and sea and transported to the port of Rafina, while the bodies of six people have been recovered from the water.
Death toll from the apocalyptic wildfire is estimated at 79 people, but the number is expected to rise as dozens are still unaccounted for. The Greek state has declared a state of emergency and has appealed for aid from the EU.
The fire has been put under control, yet the extent of the damage to forests and properties is major.
Search and rescue operations are continuing. Citizens who need assistance from the Greek Coast Guard can call on the emergency number 108.
