Very high wildfire risk for Thessaloniki and Kilkis on 13 July, Civil Protection warns

Fire risk forecast

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection, under the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, issued a very high wildfire risk warning (category 4) for Monday, 13 July 2026, covering the regional units of Thessaloniki and Kilkis. A high risk (category 3) is also forecast for several island and mainland regions, according to the Fire Risk Prediction Map. The warning is particularly significant because the Central Macedonia region has recorded an increased number of fires in recent days, with successive incidents that have caused substantial operational mobilisation of the Fire Service. Experience from the last few days shows that even a small ignition, when combined with high temperatures, dry vegetation, strong winds and intense human activity, can escalate into a highly dangerous fire within a very short time.

Operational measures activated

Authorities raised the operational readiness to stage 2, involving increased aerial surveillance patrols and patrols by fire, police, and military forces. Fire service personnel in those regional units have been placed on partial alert to meet the higher service demands that may arise from the very high fire risk. The Civil Protection Action Plan for forest fire risks has been implemented, which includes, among other measures, a preventive traffic ban for vehicles and a prohibition on the presence of visitors in national parks, forests and vulnerable areas. The relevant state agencies, as well as the regional and municipal authorities of the affected areas, have been notified to be on heightened civil protection alert to respond immediately to any fire incidents.

Appeal for public caution

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection issued a strong appeal to all citizens to demonstrate maximum responsibility and to avoid any outdoor activity that could cause a fire. Particular attention is needed for machinery that produces sparks, outdoor barbecues, smoking of beehives, and the discarding of lit cigarettes. Citizens are reminded that the burning of fields and crop residues is prohibited during the fire season.

On days of increased risk, even a small act of negligence can have serious consequences. Compliance with prevention measures and avoiding any dangerous activity in the countryside can prevent a fire from starting and decisively contribute to protecting human life, property and the natural environment.

Citizens' actions in case of fire

If citizens notice smoke or fire, they are urged to immediately notify the Fire Service by calling 199 and to follow the instructions of the competent authorities and any messages from the 112 emergency alert system. More information and self-protection guidelines on the risks of forest fires can be found on the website of the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, www.civilprotection.gr. The Ministry stressed that in days of heightened risk, the most effective form of protection is prevention, and that even one small act of compliance can make a decisive difference.