During the 2021 heatwave, Greece and the metropolis of Athens were threatened by a prolonged series of persistent wildfires. The smoke was visible as far away as Turkey, and it took weeks before emergency services managed to bring the rapidly spreading fires under control. Access restrictions were imposed in some areas amid suspicions of arson.
The fire fronts came dangerously close to Athens and were driven by sustained strong winds as far as the northern suburb of Varympompi. Many houses were lost in the blaze and residents were evacuated. The national highway between Athens and Lamia was even closed for an extended period.