Heat wave triggers wildfires in Greece

Large wildfires raging near the Greek capital Athens have forced thousands to evacuate, with flames reaching heights of 25 meters, as much of Europe contends with extreme heat conditions.

Italy endured intense temperatures over the weekend and French authorities issued weather warnings for southern areas of the country. The United Kingdom was bracing for its hottest day of the year so far on Monday, with temperatures in some areas set to reach above 34 C.

High temperatures and strong winds fueled a massive wildfire north of Athens, where more than 400 firefighters, supported by aircraft, battled flames that burned trees, houses and cars and sent smoke clouds billowing over the capital, Reuters reported.