Wildfire in West Attica triggers evacuations and sea rescue of 12 near Porto Germeno

Fire breaks out and spreads

A wildfire that started on 31 July at Kalamaki in Viotia spread rapidly toward the coastal settlements of West Attica. By Saturday, 1 August, the flames were threatening Porto Germeno, Agios Nektarios, and Psatha, prompting a large-scale emergency response. The Hellenic Police (ELAS) released video footage showing officers moving through smoke-filled streets to alert residents.

Evacuations and police response

Police conducted door-to-door evacuations in Agios Nektarios, Porto Germeno, and Psatha, urging residents and visitors to leave immediately. The operation involved six Immediate Action patrol cars, six DI.AS. motorcycle teams, two West Attica Police Directorate patrol cars, four Security stations, and eight Traffic Police cars. Officers also assisted with traffic control and helped free citizens trapped by the advancing fire.

Traffic disruptions

On Saturday afternoon, police announced a series of road closures and diversions to protect drivers and facilitate firefighting. Traffic was diverted on the Oinoi–Porto Germeno provincial road from Kryo Pigadi toward Porto Germeno, on the Alepochori–Psatha–Vilia road from Psatha toward Vilia, and on Agiou Georgiou Street from the Elefsina–Thiva road toward Porto Germeno at the TITAN settlement. Additional diversions were in place on the Alepochori–Psatha–Vilia road from Pefkon Street toward Psatha, from Kithaironos Street (Agios Nektarios) toward Kryo Pigadi, and from Psatha beach toward Psatha. Drivers were urged to avoid the wider area.

Firefighting challenges and rescue at sea

Overnight, a fire truck was engulfed in flames; the firefighters escaped unharmed. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard and Fire Service rescued 12 people from Porto Germeno beach. The operation was coordinated by the Coast Guard Operations Center and involved a Coast Guard patrol boat and a Fire Service vessel. The 12 rescued individuals were transported safely to Alepochori. A Coast Guard patrol boat, a Fire Service boat, and private vessels remained in the area to provide further assistance if needed.

Ongoing situation

As of Saturday evening, the fire continued to burn, with authorities focusing on protecting lives and property. No casualties had been reported. Police forces remained on standby in the affected areas, and the Coast Guard maintained a presence off the coast.