Mainland Greece: the land where almost every risk comes together

Mainland Greece — from Athens to the Peloponnese and Thessaly — is rich in history and nature, but also in natural hazards. While many destinations face one dominant danger, Greece combines them almost all: wildfire, extreme heat, flooding and, to a lesser extent, earthquakes.

In our atlas, the region ranks at a total risk of approximately 69% — the highest of all regions. This calls for clear-headedness, not panic: it means the chance of a noticeably disrupted holiday during peak season is real, not that disaster is likely.

A convergence of dangers

Recent history illustrates the breadth of these risks.

In 2018, the Mati disaster near Athens claimed 104 lives. In 2021, Evia burned — Greece's largest wildfire ever (more than 50,000 hectares). In 2023, Storm Daniel struck with catastrophic flooding in Thessaly, while simultaneously a record wildfire raged near Evros (96,000 hectares). In 2025, fires followed near Patras, on Chios and elsewhere.

The peak months are July through September. Fire and heat dominate in summer; the heaviest flooding often comes with severe autumn storms.

The key tip: one app

• Download the official 112 Greece app. It sends evacuation alerts by region, also in English. This is by far the fastest official channel and literally life-saving during wildfires.
• Choose accommodation near the coast or town, not in remote forested hills with a single access road.
• Check your escape route upon arrival: where is the nearest main road and beach?

Practical advice

• Travel outside July/August if you can; in May, June, September and October, fire and heat risk drop significantly.
• Book accommodation with air conditioning for summer heat, with tropical nights during peak season.
• For a road trip: account for sudden road closures due to fire or flooding, and book with some flexibility.

In brief

Mainland Greece stacks the risks, but with a conscious choice of travel dates, a location on the coast and the 112 app on your phone, you greatly reduce the chance of problems. Check the current fire danger and warnings for your region in the atlas just before departure and during your stay.