Two dead as wildfires sweep Greek island of Salamina

Two people died and several others were injured on Sunday as fast-moving wildfires swept through the Greek island of Salamina, forcing hundreds of residents and holidaymakers to evacuate during one of the country's busiest summer weekends. The fires, driven by near gale-force winds, broke out in the Peristeria and Selinia areas, threatening homes and coastal communities west of Athens.

Emergency crews were first alerted to the blaze at 2:43 p.m. local time. According to the fire service, the flames spread rapidly across a large area within seven minutes due to the strong winds. The two victims were found in the Peristeria area. Greek authorities initially said they believed the dead were a couple, though their identities were not immediately released. Four people with burns were taken to Salamina hospital and were reported to be in good condition. An elderly man was also rescued from his home and taken for medical attention.

The fires erupted during the peak summer getaway weekend around the August 15 Assumption holiday, when large numbers of Athenians head to nearby islands such as Salamina, which is easily accessible from the capital's main port of Piraeus. Deputy fire service...