Wildfires in Greece prompt EU Civil Protection Mechanism activation

As reported by Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), wildfires have erupted across Greece, particularly in the northern Peloponnese region.

In response to Greece’s request through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism on 1 October 2024, the EU has swiftly mobilised aircraft to assist in firefighting efforts.

The EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre has deployed three firefighting planes from the rescEU emergency reserves.

These planes, originating from Croatia and Italy, have already arrived in Greece and are actively assisting in the suppression of the fires.

Emergency satellite mapping, via the EU’s Copernicus system, has also been initiated to provide local authorities with updated maps to support their operations.

Previous EU firefighting support during Greece’s wildfire season

Earlier this year, Greece requested EU support twice during its wildfire season.

Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, Greece received assistance in the form of five firefighting planes, two helicopters, and seven ground teams, which totalled 348 firefighters and 115 vehicles.

This support was essential in helping Greece manage the fires at the time.

In addition to this, Greece also hosted a prepositioning programme, which involved the deployment of firefighters and vehicles in advance to strengthen the country’s preparedness.

These personnel remained in Greece for several weeks, ready to respond to emergencies.

EU’s ongoing monitoring and future support

The European Commission remains vigilant as wildfires continue to threaten Greece.

Through its Copernicus satellite system, the Commission is closely monitoring fire danger forecasts.

Should the situation escalate, the EU stands ready to mobilise additional resources as needed.

The EU’s coordinated response highlights its ongoing commitment to assisting member states during times of natural disasters.

Greece continues to benefit from the EU’s extensive emergency resources, which are available through the Civil Protection Mechanism.

Emergency satellite mapping and firefighting aircraft

The EU’s Copernicus system is being employed to aid local Greek authorities with accurate and timely satellite maps.

These maps are designed to provide real-time data that can be used to plan effective firefighting strategies.

The system’s deployment is part of the EU’s broader support for Greece during the ongoing crisis.

The firefighting planes sent to Greece have been mobilised from Croatia and Italy, demonstrating the collaborative nature of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

This rapid response is crucial in addressing the fast-moving wildfires that are currently spreading across the northern Peloponnese.

EU sends aircraft to Greece to combat northern Peloponnese wildfires: Summary

The EU has dispatched three firefighting planes to Greece to combat wildfires in the northern Peloponnese region, following Greece’s activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

These aircraft, mobilised from Croatia and Italy, have arrived to assist in controlling the flames.

In addition, the EU has launched emergency satellite mapping through the Copernicus system to support local authorities.

This is the third time this wildfire season that Greece has requested EU assistance, having received firefighting aircraft, helicopters, and ground teams earlier in the year.

The European Commission continues to monitor the situation and remains ready to provide further support if necessary.