The three main fronts of a huge wildfire burning west of Athens showed signs of easing on Tuesday morning, after a fourth consecutive night during which hundreds of firefighters fought to contain the scattered flames and prevent new flare ups.

Firefighting forces however were on alert as the thermal load remained high in the area and rising temperatures later in the day could reignite the flames. Authorities say the time after 1 p.m.  is considered critical, when the rise in temperature and the drop in relative humidity can reactivate smoldering hot spots.

Tuesday’s firefighting operations were focusing on Psatha, a seaside resort west of Athens, where crews battled scattered outbreaks.

At first light of day seven water-dropping aircraft took off, supporting the ground forces made up of 450 firefighters with 126 fire engines, 22 units on foot, volunteers and 46 firefighters from France and Romania. An Armed Forces unit is also participating in the efforts.

The area of the fire has been divided operationally into three sectors to ensure better coordination of forces. The northern sector includes the areas of Kryo Pigadi, Agios Nektarios and Mount Kithaironas, while the southern sector extends towards Psatha, Loumpa, Veniza and Zachouli. The third sector is developing southeast, towards Kandili, Moni Kamara and Megara.

Initial estimates show the large blaze has so far burned approximately 13,290 hectares in Attica and Viotia, leaving behind damages to homes, properties, and crops.

On Sunday two rented Bell helicopters assisting with the operation near Psatha, collided midair, killing two people. Police have taken over the preliminary investigation into the cause of the crash.

Source: Ekathimerini.com