Athens suburb residents told to evacuate as wildfires in Greece spread

Greek official says ‘real difficulties’ ahead as dry conditions and high temperatures are expected to persist.

A wildfire has burned through a northern suburb of the Greek capital of Athens, leading to the evacuation of some residents, the country’s Fire Service has reported.

Residents of the town of Kryoneri, 20km (12.5 miles) northeast of Athens, received three text messages on Saturday to leave for safe areas, Fire Service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakoyannis told reporters.

“There have been reports of damage. We will take stock when the fires have been put out,” the spokesperson said.

Greek media outlets showed houses on fire.