Forest fires raged uncontrolled in several places across Greece, destroying homes, disrupting major transport links and sending people fleeing for their lives. At least 60 people have died in wildfires in the Attica region around Athens, in Greece's worst fire disaster in more than a decade. Flames fanned by strong winds devastated the seaside village of Mati, devouring homes and cars. Rescuers found the bodies of 26 adults and children who had apparently hugged each other as they died, trapped by the inferno just metres from the sea. Many calls have been made to the rescue services looking for missing persons.
Mati is located in the Rafina region which is popular with local tourists, especially pensioners and children attending holiday camps. Hundreds of firefighters have been battling the blazes and the authorities are seeking international assistance. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has declared three days of national mourning.
What is happening here in eastern Attica is a black hell. After I passed by hundreds of burning cars and houses earlier today, I reached the yard where police said so many people had been found dead. I could see some of them lying on the ground as fog covered the place and a toxic smell spread through the atmosphere. Most of them were tourists who had tried to find refuge but did not make it. "I am calling my cousin but he does not respond," said Spiros Hatziandreou, who visited the spot. I could see flames in the trees and on the electricity poles all around. After that, police blocked access to everyone except rescuers.
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