Authorities in Greece issue code red wildfire alert for Ionian islands

Published on 26/08/2026 - 11:57 GMT+2

The Ionian Islands region was placed under a Code Red alert on Wednesday, as a very high risk of wildfires (Category 4) is forecast. The decision was taken by the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.

Under the alert, the National Civil Protection Mechanism is fully activated, deploying the necessary personnel, equipment and resources required to prepare for imminent threat, respond to emergencies and manage the consequences of any destructive event.

Short-term recovery, relief and support measures are also activated to help mitigate the impact of the disaster.

A high wildfire risk (Category 3) is forecast for Attica, several mainland areas and all of the country's islands.

The alert comes as Greece is at the height of the summer holiday season, with beaches packed with both domestic and international tourists.

Other wildfires under control

Meanwhile, the situation has improved at the site of a fire that broke out on Tuesday in a quarry containing rubbish and low vegetation in the Elliniko area of Salamina.

According to the Fire Service, the blaze has been contained and there is no risk of further spread.

Another wildfire that broke out in the Agios Vlasios area of Viotia was also largely brought under control, with firefighters still tackling some hot spots.

Residents of the Tsoukalades area had been informed by authorities on Tuesday to evacuate and move towards Livadeia.

Also a wildfire that broke out in a forest area in Stefani in Viotia no longer has an active front. During the night, firefighters fought several flare-ups and are now mainly focusing on several hotspots.