Two dead and hundreds evacuated after twin fires break out on Greek island

What the report says

Two people died and hundreds of residents and visitors were evacuated after twin wildfires broke out almost at the same time on the Greek island of Salamina, near Athens, according to the reported article. The fires began on Sunday afternoon in separate parts of the island, one in a forested residential area in Peristeria and another later in Selinia, as strong winds and dry conditions helped the flames spread quickly.

About 200 firefighters were sent to the island, along with aircraft, fire engines, water tankers, construction equipment and vessels from the coast guard and fire department. Officials said the response aimed to stop the two blazes from joining and creating a larger fire. By Sunday evening, one fire had been brought under control and evacuations had been completed, while the other had no active front, though crews were still dealing with scattered hotspots.

Fire officials said two bodies were found at the scene in the first blaze. Local media, cited in the report, said the victims were believed to be a couple. Greek health officials also said at least 10 other people were affected by burns or smoke inhalation. Around 500 people left the island by sea.

The article places the fires in the context of a wider period of wildfire activity in Europe, and notes that Salamina had been under high wildfire risk. It also says the cause of the fires had not yet been determined.