Luxury Yacht Fire Prompts Arrests in Greece

A total of thirteen individuals, comprising both crew members and visitors, on a luxurious yacht situated in Greece have been apprehended and are currently in custody. They have been accused of utilizing pyrotechnic devices that were discharged from the vessel, causing the ignition of a wildfire on the island of Hydra.

The fire was successfully contained by firefighters on Saturday in the isolated area of Bisti, causing significant damage to a section of the island's only pine forest.

Due to the secluded topography, firefighters were compelled to carry out operations utilizing both aerial and maritime support.

Hydra is a popular sailing destination located in the Saronic Gulf, positioned to the southwest of Athens.

Greece's officials have not released the identity of the boat or the individuals on board, but Hydra's mayor, George Koukoudakis, expressed his fury on state television.

"I am truly saddened by this, if it is true."

Arson has become subject to more severe penalties in Greece, as a conviction now carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of up to €200,000 ($213,650).

According to experts, various factors indicate that Greece may face yet another arduous summer, characterized by elevated temperatures and intense winds, which considerably heighten the risk of wildfires.

Last week, as temperatures soared above 44°C in various locations, the nation encountered its inaugural heatwave of the year.

Over the course of three days, the flames were further intensified by strong winds, requiring Greek firefighters to engage in relentless combat throughout the weekend.

On Friday, the hospital experienced the demise of a gentleman volunteer firefighter, aged 55, who had endured injuries in a fire on the Peloponnese peninsula.

A two-week heatwave that occurred in the preceding year gave rise to extensive wildfires, causing severe damage to 1.3% of Greece's territory and tragically causing the loss of 20 lives.

Scientists have long been warning the public about the escalating intensity and duration of global heatwaves as a result of emissions derived from fossil fuels.

With the increasing number of deaths resulting from extreme weather-related occurrences in Saudi Arabia, the United States, India, and Brazil, it is anticipated that this year will yield yet another unprecedented year of elevated temperatures.