VIDEO: Major Fires Near Athens; Over 200 Firefighters Battle the Blaze

Major forest fires have erupted in areas near Athens, according to Euractiv.

Reports indicate that the fire has intensified due to strong winds. People have been forced to evacuate their homes, and hundreds of children have been rescued from summer camps.

Reuters reported that at least five houses have been seriously damaged, according to a source. Police have assisted more than 100 citizens in evacuating to safe areas. The fire has become so intense that it has reached barns, and dozens of horses have also been evacuated.

“Due to strong winds, the fire spread 12 kilometers in just two hours,” said a representative of the Greek fire service during a press briefing.

It has been noted that over 200 firefighters, along with 68 fire trucks, 10 airplanes, and 6 helicopters, are combating the blaze.