Image captured by the VIIRS instrument aboard the joint NASA/NOAA NOAA-20 satellite on July 19, 2023|NASA Worldview
Continuous wildfires engulf the Greek islands of Rhodes, Corfu and Evia, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate. Amid scorching temperatures, many tourists are left stranded at airports and makeshift shelters.
Rhodes, a popular holiday destination, witnessed the largest-ever wildfire evacuation in Greece’s history as nearly 30,000 people fled the flames over the weekend.
Greece—battling a heat wave since mid-July—has seen temperatures soaring above 104 degrees Fahrenheit on some islands. Corfu officials claim dry conditions and possible arson have fueled scores of wildfires across the country.
Firefighters assisted by international aid are still struggling to contain the blazes. Greece’s weather service warns of temperatures flaring up again in the coming days.