Opposition Parties Criticize Greece's Fire Preparedness
Opposition parties in Greece have accused the government of failing to prepare adequately for the country’s routine summer wildfires.
Recent Fire Events and Heatwave Conditions
The criticism came as thousands of people and emergency crews battled roughly a dozen major blazes on Aug. 14, 2025, with a heatwave driving fire conditions across southern Europe.
Major Fires and Evacuations
Among the most serious fires was one threatening Patras, Greece’s third-largest city, prompting evacuations and emergency responses in affected areas.
Calls for Reforms and Increased Investment
Opposition leaders said the repeated annual outbreaks expose shortcomings in prevention, coordination and resource planning. They urged immediate reforms and greater investment in firefighting capacity.
Impact of Extreme Heat and Dry Conditions
The unfolding fires underscored the strain that extreme heat and dry conditions are placing on the region this season.