A spokesman for the Greek Government says the death toll from two big bushfires raging on the outskirts of Athens has risen to at least 20.
Dimitris Tzanakopoulos said that at least 69 other people have been hospitalised with injuries. Many are in serious condition.
Greece has sought international assistance to cope with the fires near the capital, which have destroyed dozens of homes, burned cars and prompted tourists and Greeks to flee to beaches east of Athens for dramatic rescues by boats.
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras cut short a visit to Bosnia and returned to Athens to preside over an emergency response meeting with fire chiefs and government officials.
The two major forest fires are burning out-of-control on either side of the capital, turning the sky over Athens a hazy orange from the smoke.