Investigators from the Athens Observatory are focusing on marine sources as the likely origin of a foul odor that blanketed southern Athens suburbs on May 19, according to scientists.
European satellite data from the Copernicus program detected vessels anchored south of Salamis Island at the time of the incident – including two tankers at 8 a.m. – placing them within the zone scientists believe the phenomenon originated. Three land-based pollution scenarios have been ruled out.
The smell, first reported near Vouliagmeni, spread north as far as Peristeri, Galatsi, Ilion, and Maroussi. Authorities received 165 citizen reports via the emergency line, with the highest concentrations recorded in Kallithea, Alimos, and Paleo Faliro.
The Environment Ministry is reviewing all available data.
