A significant wildfire erupted on Monday afternoon in the Ano Souli area of Marathonas, reportedly ignited by an unusual culprit: a magpie that collided with a power utility pole, resulting in sparks that set nearby vegetation ablaze.
Firefighting crews on the scene revealed that the bird struck a wooden power pole managed by HEDNO (Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator). This impact led to a fire outbreak that rapidly spread to the adjacent forest. The remains of a charred magpie were discovered just meters from St. Raphael’s Monastery, confirming the cause of the ignition.
The fire began around 1:30 PM, triggering a swift and extensive response from fire authorities:
- 140 firefighters
- 5 ground teams
- 38 fire engines
- 11 firefighting aircraft
- 7 helicopters
- Several volunteers and municipal water tankers
The blaze has now been brought under control, with no injuries or structural damage reported.
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