Dramatic animal rescues as Greek wildfires ravage Patras

A resident carries a dog to safety during wildfires near Patras, Greece (Illustrative image) (Photo by Aris MESSINIS / AFP) (Photo by ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images) Getty Images

Farmers and residents risked their lives to rescue animals as devastating wildfires tore through Greece's third-largest city of Patras on Wednesday. A farmer navigated smoke-filled roads on his motorbike, carrying a sheep to safety through the chaos.

Another man fled advancing fire lines, running with his goats as flames consumed olive groves and pine forests around the port city. Residents evacuated from their homes, carrying pets and guiding frightened livestock away from the rapidly spreading blazes.

Widespread fire crisis

The wildfires have intensified after weeks of scorching heat across southern Europe. Firefighting resources remain stretched despite assistance from the European Union as the crisis continues to unfold across multiple regions.

Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.