Concerns are growing for a missing Irish man who was caught up in the Greek wildfires. The missing man and his wife were separated as they tried to flee Mati.
He has not been seen since Monday.
The man’s wife has been taken to hospital in Athens, where she is being treated for her injuries.
Our prayers are with Greece today #Greecefires #PrayforGreece pic.twitter.com/FpyzQFZt6h
— Benonwine (@benonwine) July 24, 2018
The newly married couple were on their honeymoon in the seaside resort.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is said to be “providing consular assistance to a number of individuals in Greece.”
Anyone with concerns should contact the Irish Embassy in Athens 0030-210-723-2771 or 01-4082000.
Approximately 76 lives have been claimed by the wildfires, with the death toll expected to rise.
Pray for #Greece. At least 74 people have died and over 180 are injured in the worst ever wildfires ravaging the outskirts of Athens, Attica region. Our thoughts and prayers are with Greece. pic.twitter.com/Tndtkq36gQ
— Seref Sezgin (@SEREF737) July 24, 2018
Rescuers continue to search the area for survivors.
This is the worst fire crisis the country has seen in over a decade. The wildfires are a recurring issue during the hot, dry summer months in Attica.
It is believed the flames were fanned by high winds this week.
Our condolences with Greece at this difficult time. Irish citizens in region should keep up to date with local media + follow advice of Greek authorities in affected areas. Irish citizens affected can contact Irish Embassy in Athens +30 210 723 2771 or my Dept +353 1 408 2000.
— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) July 24, 2018
However, there may be another cause for the fires. Officials quoted by AFP news agency have suggested it may have begun via arsonists looking to loot abandoned homes.
"Fifteen fires had started simultaneously on three different fronts in Athens," said government spokesman Dimitris Tzanakopoulos.
The official said in order to "observe and detect any suspicious activity", they had requested drones from the US.
