Attica odor mystery remains unsolved – New leading theory emerges
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Investigations into the source of the strong odor across Attica continue, as authorities focus on a new prevailing scenario.
- 25 Μαΐου 2026 22:32
Investigations into the source of the foul smell that engulfed the southern suburbs of Attica last Tuesday (May 19) are continuing by the scientific team of the National Observatory of Athens.
At the same time, the European Copernicus program captured satellite images of the ships that were located in the area of interest.
According to ERT, the data analysis appears to rule out three possible cases of land-based pollution, shifting efforts to identify the source of the intense odor toward the sea.
On Tuesday, May 19, at 8:00 a.m., as seen in the video, two oil tankers were anchored south of Salamina. At the same time, other types of vessels were also passing through the area.
The two ships, although there is no evidence implicating them, were located within the circle scientifically identified as the point where the pollution originated.
Starting from Vouliagmeni, the foul odor spread as far as Peristeri, Galatsi, Ilion, and even Marousi.
The Ministries of Environment and Climate Crisis have been mobilized over the case.
Authorities have collected all 165 messages sent by citizens to the “112” emergency service that day. The highest number of reports and the strongest odor were recorded in Kallithea, Alimos, and Palaio Faliro. However, because a westerly wind was blowing very early in the morning, reports were also recorded in Voula and Vouliagmeni.
