Saronikos, Attica

A prosecutor has ordered a preliminary investigation into the circumstances of the death of animals at a private shelter in Lagonissi, in southeastern Attica, following an extensive fire in the region.

The fire broke out at nearby Neos Kouvaras on Monday and spread to other areas of southeastern Attica, leading to the death of several cats and dogs at the shelter.

The EU's Copernicus/Emergency Management Service - Mapping service found that the ongoing wildfires in west Attica that started from the settlement of Kouvaras have destroyed 3,472 hectares, of which 164 were built-up areas, houses, businesses, farms etc. 

Water-dumping aircraft took off at first light on Tuesday to help dozens of ground crews and mobile units battle three wildfires in the regions of Attica, Corinth and Viotia for a second day, as strong winds and high temperatures continued to exacerbate conditions.

Two wildfires, fanned by strong winds, raged uncontrolled through coastal towns near Athens on Monday forcing residents to flee their homes and prompting the evacuation of hundreds of children from a summer camp.

The United States Mission in Greece issued an alert over the raging wildfires in eastern Attica and Loutraki.

The authorities have ordered the evacuation of the towns of Lagonisi, Saronida, and Anavyssos as the wildfire in the Kouvaras region of eastern Attica has moved close to homes in the area.

There are over 150 firefighters with 40 vehicles operating on scene, along with seven aircraft and four helicopters. A firefighting force from Romania is also assisting.