A fast-moving wildfire near Athens forced residents to flee their homes on Sunday as hot, windy weather fueled the blaze, which burned trees, houses, and cars, sending smoke over the Greek capital.

Over 400 firefighters, supported by aircraft, battled the fire that rapidly reached the village of Varnavas, 35 km north of Athens.

Gale-force winds caused the flames to spread quickly, engulfing the area. As night fell, firefighting aircraft were grounded, leaving the situation dangerous.

Scientists link the increasing frequency of wildfires in Greece to climate change, with the country experiencing its hottest summer on record, Reuters has reported.

Fires have also struck other parts of Europe this summer amid extreme heat.

Written by B.C. Begley