‘It’s like a war’: Greece battles increase in summer wildfires

Prevention and suppression are crucial as climate change creates stronger heatwaves, say experts

The hills in the wealthy Athens suburb of Varympompi are lined with rows of burnt trees after fires ripped through the area last August. Some pines still showed flickering signs of life, the pale brown upper branches contrasting with their blackened trunks. Nearby wedding halls were reduced to burnt-out shells. The air still carries the smell of dust and ash.

Two local workers cleared burnt trees and debris from a 12 sq km (4.6 sq mile) area. We will leave some of these, the ones that are in OK condition, in the hope that they'll grow new trees," said one, who gave his name only as Agilos, picking up a charred pine cone.