ATHENS

The Parthenon is illuminated by forest fires and smoke, as ash rains down on Athens yesterday, covering cars and streets with a grey film. The country is suffering from its longest heatwave on record.

“This reminds me of the last days of Pompeii,” said Natalia Giannaki, a resident on her way to work, clasping a handkerchief to her mouth.

Thirty firefighters were treated in hospital as thousands of firemen, volunteers and more than 300 soldiers fought fires on Mount Parnitha, north of the city. Police said that more than 2,500 hectares (6,000 acres) of forest had been destroyed, including parts of the Parnitha National Park, the once lush hills that were the “lungs” of the city.

Five other big fires in Greece were almost under control. Fire brigade officials said that wooden pylons had caught fire in the week-long heatwave, in which temperatures have soared above 40C (104F). In some cases they were investigating possible arson. (Reuters)

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