Two people have been killed after two firefighting helicopters collided during operations to battle a major wildfire near Athens, Greece, as extreme heat and dry conditions continue to increase wildfire risks across parts of Europe.
According to Reuters, the collision occurred while the helicopters were supporting firefighting efforts near the Greek capital. The victims included a Greek citizen and a Danish citizen, while two other crew members, a Greek national and a British national, survived the crash.
Greek authorities have opened an investigation into the cause of the collision as firefighters continue efforts to contain the wildfire and assess damage in affected areas.
The accident comes as Greece faces one of its most challenging wildfire seasons in recent years, with high temperatures, drought and strong winds creating conditions that allow fires to spread rapidly.
Authorities said wildfires linked to the ongoing heatwave have destroyed more than 100 homes and forced hundreds of residents to evacuate. Emergency services have issued warnings for communities west of Athens as firefighters work to slow the spread of flames.
Investigators are also examining the causes of the fires. Initial assessments suggested that sparks from electricity transmission lines may have contributed to some outbreaks. Two people have reportedly been detained on suspicion of negligence.
The wildfire emergency in Greece reflects a wider climate-related challenge across Europe. Severe fires have also affected countries including France and Spain, while prolonged heatwaves and drought continue to strain emergency services and infrastructure.
Scientists have warned that rising temperatures are increasing wildfire risks by drying vegetation and creating conditions where fires spread faster and become more difficult to control.
