CBRN event in Greece on Wed 20th May 2026

Authorities were still unable late Tuesday to determine the source of a strong odor that spread across Athens’ southern suburbs for hours, alarming residents and triggering widespread speculation about possible chemical leaks. The lack of official information fueled theories about the cause and composition of the smell, with attention turning to natural gas networks, the Revithoussa LNG terminal, refineries, commercial ships, fuel and liquefied gas storage facilities, and sewage treatment installations at Psyttaleia. People familiar with chemical compounds said the odor resembled liquefied gas or a petroleum byproduct more than natural gas. Mass calls from residents to the fire service, DESFA, and gas distribution operator Enaon EDA prompted emergency checks and coordination with the Environment and Energy, and the Civil Protection ministries. DESFA said unofficially late Tuesday that the odor “is not related to its network or facilities,” noting that its high-pressure network does not pass through the affected areas. Enaon EDA also said inspections through late afternoon found no damage or gas leak in its system. Residents from Vari, Vouliagmeni, Glyfada, Ilioupoli, Argyroupoli, Nea Smyrni, Vyronas and Palaio Faliro reported the smell in large numbers until around 4 p.m., when complaints began to decline. Enaon EDA said reinforced technical crews and specialized leak-detection vehicles carried out extensive inspections and remained on alert. DESFA rejected reports of a malfunction at Revithoussa, while Motor Oil, Helleniq Energy, EYDAP and the coast guard also denied responsibility. An Athens University chemistry laboratory commissioned by the Environment Ministry is expected to release findings on the odor’s composition on Wednesday. The Environment Ministry referred questions to the Civil Protection Ministry, which is coordinating the investigation.