Greek forest fire rages near Athens

22/08/09 18:12 CET

world news

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Firefighters in Greece are battling to control a large wildfire on the outskirts of the capital, Athens.

The blaze broke out late on Friday, quickly reducing thousands of acres of forest to ash and cinders. Authorities have declared states of emergency in and around Grammatik, Varnavas and Marathon. Strong winds helped the fire spread rapidly to other villages. More than 150 firefighters are tackling the blaze which has damaged eight homes. No-one has been reported injured so far. Helicopters loaded with flame retardants are constantly criss-crossing the skies. With thick clouds of smoke hanging heavy over the capital, people near the danger zone have been urged to evacuate the area.More about: Fires, Fires in Greece, Greece

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Mali: Rebel groups agree to creation of Islamic state

Two Rebel groups have agreed to merge and create an independent Islamic state in Northern Mali. After seizing Azawad – an area larger than France – two months ago, the groups had initially disagreed, with the secular Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA)…