At least two people have died after a fast-moving wildfire swept through northern Greece, forcing the evacuation of residents from a nearby village as firefighters continue efforts to bring the blaze under control.
Authorities said the body of a man was discovered in a burned area near the village of Liti, about 15 kilometres northwest of Thessaloniki. A second body, which has not yet been identified, was later found inside a house in a nearby forested area.
A woman rescued from the same location with burn injuries is receiving treatment in hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Officials are also searching for a 12-year-old child who remains missing.
More than 100 firefighters, supported by dozens of fire engines and at least seven firefighting aircraft, are battling the blaze. Emergency crews are reportedly confronting a fire front stretching nearly five kilometres as strong winds continue to fuel its spread.
The wildfire broke out on Tuesday afternoon before rapidly advancing into nearby forestland. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire.
The area had been placed under a high wildfire risk alert due to dry weather and powerful winds, which have complicated firefighting efforts and triggered repeated flare-ups.
Residents of Liti were ordered to evacuate as flames approached the village, while local media reported that several homes had been damaged. The fire was also advancing toward the nearby village of Melissochori.
According to reports, the missing child is believed to be the son of the deceased man and the injured woman.
The latest wildfire is part of a series of forest fires that have struck Greece in recent days as the country approaches its peak summer tourist season. Greece has experienced increasingly severe wildfires in recent years, driven by prolonged droughts, extreme heat, and strong seasonal winds.