Forest fires rage near Athens

Big fires occurred in Marathon area close to Greek capital on Saturday, threatening the villages and Penteli mountain nearby. No injuries were reported so far.

One major blaze stretched for 10 km long between the Marathon Lake and nearby towns. Heavy smokes were seen over Athens and the surrounding regions. It is believed the fire is the biggest since the one 2007 Summer.

Up to 300 firemen and volunteers were fighting to put out the fire, using 53 fire engines, 24 municipal water trucks and 19 fire-fighting aircraft. The army have been requested to join the battle.

Local media reported that there is a military base near Marathon, where rockets and other weapons are stored. The fire brigade had to evacuate the base for safety.

Greek Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis came to the Civil Protection Agency headquarters to encourage the fire brigades. He said the most important things is to protect people's lives and properties.

Several fires were reported in Greece in the last 24 hours. It is the busiest day for firemen since this Summer. The firemen expected to put the fires under control soon as the wind has been forecast to fade later in the day.

Greece has the most typical Mediterranean style of weather which is very dry and hot in the Summer time. Bush fires occur often during this season.