Greece places four regions under Red Code fire alert as heat and winds spike risk

Red Code mobilization

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, four regions of Greece will be placed under a Red Code mobilization status due to a very high fire risk (category 4). The areas are the Attica Region, the Evia Regional Unit in Central Greece, and the Lesvos and Chios Regional Units in the North Aegean. The decision follows the daily Fire Risk Prediction Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.

The Red Code mobilization status provides for the full mobilization of the National Civil Protection Mechanism, with the activation and deployment of the necessary human resources, as well as the required means and resources, to ensure operational readiness for addressing potential emergencies and managing the consequences of forest fires.

The Red Code also triggers short-term restoration, relief, and support actions to limit the impact of any destructive phenomena. Municipalities and regions in the affected areas are required to immediately convene their Local and Regional Operational Coordination Bodies for Civil Protection (Τ.Ε.Σ.Ο.Π.Π. and Π.Ε.Σ.Ο.Π.Π.) to examine readiness, coordination, and necessary preventive measures.

Weather conditions

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) forecasts generally clear weather for Wednesday, with temporary clouds developing in the afternoon over mainland areas and a chance of local rain in the western and northern mountains. Winds will blow from the north, reaching 3 to 5 Beaufort in the west and 4 to 6 in the east, strengthening locally to 7 Beaufort in the Aegean. Temperatures will range from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius in the Aegean islands, while the rest of the country will see highs of 36 degrees, and mainland areas may reach 37 to 38 degrees. No significant temperature change is expected.

Operational measures

The Fire Service remains on general alert due to multiple incidents across the country and the prevailing weather conditions. The second stage of operational readiness is in effect, with aerial surveillance patrols and ground patrols by fire, police, and military forces continuing throughout the day. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has informed all relevant state services, regions, and municipalities to be on heightened civil protection readiness.

The personnel of the Fire Services of the Territory remain on general alert, in order to address the increased service requirements.

Additionally, the Civil Protection Action Plan for addressing forest fire risks is being implemented, which includes a preventive ban on vehicle traffic and the stay of excursionists in national parks, forests, and vulnerable areas. Fire service personnel in the affected regions remain on partial alert to meet the heightened operational demands.

Citizen guidance

Authorities are urging citizens to exercise increased caution and responsibility, avoiding any activity that could spark a fire. Specifically, the Fire Service warns against burning dry grass and branches, using spark-producing machinery such as circular saws and welding equipment, outdoor barbecues, smoking bees, and discarding lit cigarettes. The public is asked to report any signs of fire immediately.