Summary:
Forest fires are one of the most serious threats to Mediterranean forests, and therefore Greece, and have been the subject of increasing interest worldwide in recent decades. Climate change and weather conditions are likely to affect the characteristics of forest fires, such as the likelihood of ignition, the rate of expansion, and intensity.
Of particular interest are large forest fires, which, in addition to the large burnt area, also cause greater disasters. Therefore, identifying the factors responsible for the growth of a wildfire to a large one, is a key factor for effective management of forest fires at both the levels of prevention and suppression.
The present paper seeks to analyze the underlying causes of the ever-increasing problem of forest fires that affect the natural wealth of the country and lead to large-scale fires with intense behavior and tragic results. In this context, data and quantitative information were collected and analyzed by agencies, authorities and organizations on a range of factors related to fires, in order to optimally and objectively describe the current situation. The purpose of the study is to assess the underlying causes of wildfires in Greece and to formulate a modern, documented and scientific approach to reforming the forest fire management system.
Keywords:
forest fires, Greece, climate change, forest fires management
