The residents of east and west Attica confronted the scalding fury of wildfires that spread intensely and rapidly, due to drought and very strong winds, from Penteli and Kalitechnoupolis to Kinetta, Rafina, Kalamos, Neos Vournas and Mati. Hundreds of houses were burnt to ashes and thousands of cars were rendered into shapeless masses, especially at Mati. People, in panic, rushed to the seaside to save their lives, from where frigates, coast guard vessels and small fishing boats took many of them to safety.
But, countless families with small children, babies and grandparents were trapped by scorching flames and met a torturous, agonising death. Unfortunately, over 91 people died, 188 were injured and many are missing. A group of 25 charred bodies were found, mostly children, huddling together and hugging each other, in a plot at Mati. Others drowned at sea. Also, numerous animals were victims of this murderous blaze.
Profound grief and fury all over Greece, for this enormous national tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences to the victims' families and friends for their devastating, tragic loss.
We, also, wish to express our deep gratitude and admiration to the men and women of the fire brigade, the police, the coast guard, the Greek Red Cross, volunteers and many civilians, who saved so many lives, while risking their own.
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| Pray for Greece |
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A House in Flames at Mati
Cars Scorched to Cinders
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| Escaping From the Rage of the Wildfires |
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| A Lonely Survivor |
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| In Memoriam |
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