Strong winds drive Greek wildfires for third day

By Furkan Naci Top

ATHENS (AA) - Choppy winds are driving raging wildfires near the Greek capital Athens for a third day as over 180 firefighters, backed by aircraft, attempt to tackle the blazes.

More than 20 houses have already been damaged as the fires, which began on Sunday, burned through pine forests north of the city.

Despite the intense fires in different parts of Greece, no casualties have yet been reported.

Greek civil protection authorities on Monday declared a state of emergency on the Ionian island of Zakynthos Island.

An investigation has been launched into the wildfires amid suspicions of arson.

Greek firefighters, with the help of many helicopters and two planes, are still fighting to contain fires in the coastal areas of Kalamos and Varnava, about 45 kilometers (27 miles) north of the capital.

Hundreds of holidaymakers and residents were forced to spend the night on local beaches. Campsites also have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.