Image: BBC/Gavin Lee

The death toll has risen to 74 in Greece as the nation is hit by the worst forest fires in a decade.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has described the situation as an “unspeakable tragedy”, declaring three days of national mourning for the dead.

The flames broke out on Monday afternoon around the Grecian capital, with dozens of blazes still burning out of control.

The majority of victims are based in the seaside town of Mati, east of Athens.

A passenger on a plane approaching to land at the Athens international airport has shot this dramatic video of the deadly blaze in eastern Attica.
Video Credit: @g0rillazo#PrayForGreece #PrayForAthens #AthensFires #Πυρκαγιά #Αττική #Μάτι #Ραφήνα #φωτιές #Κινέτα pic.twitter.com/H0aOHpcyEs

— The Greek Observer (@theGRobsv) July 24, 2018

Harrowing stories have emerged since the fires broke out, with terrified residents being forced to flee into the sea to escape the flames and the smoke.

Authorities have reported finding bodies on the side of the road, in charred cars and at the edge of cliffs.

26 people were found dead huddled together in a compound in an attempt to escape the firestorm.

People taking refuge from fires along the beach in Argyris Akti, Nea Makri, Greece yesterday, July 23! Report: Kalogerikos Nikos / Forecast weather Greece pic.twitter.com/2tlnVG6wzD

— severe-weather.EU (@severeweatherEU) July 24, 2018

Emergency services say the toll is expected to climb, with over 180 people still being treated in hospital.