The mayor of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni, Grigoris Konstantellos, spoke to ERT about the superhuman efforts of Air Force pilots who conducted the first-ever nighttime water drops over Keratea using Canadair aircraft.
“As we know, Canadair aircraft typically fly only from sunrise to sunset, however the moonlight yesterday apparently improved their visibility. Nighttime water drops require great skill and are not recommended, but these drops were what limited the fire’s spread during the night,” said Grigoris Konstantellos.
“These are people who know what they’re doing, they have our respect and gratitude. Sometimes pilots take excessive risks,” concluded the mayor of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni.
It should be noted that the Keratea fire broke out on Friday afternoon and was brought under control in the early hours of Saturday.
The fire quickly spread across eastern Attica, claiming one life and destroying homes in its path.
The blaze spread across a 7-kilometer radius, while strong winds continue to blow in the area. Firefighting efforts were supported by strong fire service units, while local residents also joined the battle against the flames.
