Greece

Greece fires from space

2007 is shaping up to be an all-too-memorable summer as raging wildfires have repeatedly scorched Greece. This latest spate of wildfires are located near the remote Mani area of the Peloponnese Peninsula. States of emergency have been declared in several areas of Greece. A combination of Greece's vigorous winds, higher than usual temperatures, an overstretched fire fighting system, and arsonists are at fault.

The worst of the fires are concentrated in the mountains of the Peloponnese in the south and on the island of Evia north of Athens. Strong winds blew smoke and ash over the capital.

What does this mean for the traveler? If you're sensitive to air quality, it's not the best time to visit mainland Greece. You'll be better off on the Greek islands, but fires can strike them, too. While fires are being actively fought, travel by road may be impaired and smoke can sometimes interfere with airport operations as well.