In recent days, we have been deeply moved by the devastating wildfires affecting Patras, a wonderful city whose people have always shown us great kindness. The destruction, the losses, and the silence that follows such a tragedy are truly heartbreaking. While conducting drone flights with Gaia Robotics over a vineyard at Orfanos Estate, partially damaged by the flames, we witnessed first-hand the scale of the disaster across the surrounding landscape. It was a painful reminder of the fragility of our environment and the urgent need for resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Together with the SOSVITI colleagues and friends, we also experienced the direct consequences of the wildfire in Patras. Thanks to the remarkable solidarity of our partners in the Horizon Europe MSCA project SOSVITI, we found the support we needed to safely leave the city. We are especially grateful to Dimitris Christodoulou, who generously hosted part of the team in his home with his family, and to Stefanos Xouris, who remained by our side with constant updates throughout the day and night.

This experience has shown us not only the destructive power of wildfires but also the extraordinary humanity and generosity of our Greek colleagues. From EGEMAP (Environmental Geography and Mapping) and the University of Granada, we extend all our strength, solidarity, and support to those affected by this tragedy.