Investigation Underway Into Greece Wildfire Cause

Investigators suspect that a faulty power cable may have ignited Greece's worst wildfire of 2023, which occurred near Varnavas, close to Athens, on August 11, killing one woman and destroying 10,000 hectares. The fire spread rapidly into northern suburbs of Athens, prompting inquiries into local residents, including a 76-year-old who reported a loose cable on a wooden electricity pole as a possible cause. While arson is also under consideration, the primary focus remains on the electrical issue, despite the power network operator HEDNO finding no evidence of a malfunction. This wildfire is part of a broader trend, with Greece experiencing over 8,000 forest fires in 2023, exacerbated by climate change and extreme weather conditions. As temperatures soared to 42C and winds intensified, authorities have warned of ongoing wildfire risks. The investigation into the cause of the blaze is expected to conclude in the coming months, as engineers have been deployed to assess the situation.