Mandra‑Oinói forest fire under control after extensive firefighting effort

A forest fire erupted around midday near the Sphaka location close to Oinói in the Mandra‑Eidyllia area of Attica, fueled by dry vegetation, high temperatures and strong winds. The blaze spread quickly across a steep, hard‑to‑reach ridge, prompting the fire brigade to evacuate seven houses as a precaution.

Firefighters deployed 210 personnel, ten infantry‑type teams from the 1st EMODE, numerous volunteers and civil‑protection units, along with 45 vehicles. Aerial support included 19 fixed‑wing aircraft and 10 helicopters, with water drops continuing into the night. Military engineering units helped create firebreaks, and traffic on the old Athens‑Thebes road was halted. By the evening the fire was largely contained and the perimeter was under control.

Scientists noted a temporary pyrogenic feedback effect, while smoke from the fire traveled north, lowering air quality in parts of Thessaloniki and surrounding regions, raising concerns about PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Authorities suspect a discarded cigarette from a passing vehicle as a possible ignition source, though investigations continue.