Greece is heading into another prolonged spell of extreme summer heat, with temperatures expected to approach 40°C across several parts of the country and little wind to provide relief.
Temperatures will begin climbing on Friday, with the most intense conditions forecast from the weekend through the first days of next week. Current forecasts indicate that the heat could persist until Wednesday, August 26, before temperatures gradually begin to fall.
Temperatures near 40°C across Greece
Central Macedonia is expected to experience some of the highest temperatures, with local highs reaching around 40°C.
Temperatures of 38°C to 39°C are forecast in parts of Thessaly, eastern Central Greece, Evia and the eastern Peloponnese, while some areas could also approach 40°C.
Western Greece is expected to be slightly cooler, although temperatures could still reach 34°C to 37°C in the Ionian Islands, Epirus, Western Central Greece and western parts of the Peloponnese.
In Attica, temperatures are expected to reach between 37°C and 39°C during the peak of the heatwave. The lack of overnight cooling could make conditions particularly uncomfortable in Athens, where concrete and asphalt retain heat well after sunset.
Weak winds will make the heat feel worse
One of the main factors contributing to the intensity of the heatwave will be the weakening of the winds.
The Meltemi winds that have affected the Aegean in recent weeks are expected to temporarily ease. While this will reduce the disruption caused by strong winds, it will also remove an important source of natural cooling, particularly in coastal areas and on the islands.
Humidity along the coast could further increase the perceived temperature.
Duration is the main concern
Temperatures approaching 40°C are not unusual for Greece in August. However, meteorologists are highlighting the duration of this particular heatwave.
The hottest period is expected between August 23 and 26, with high temperatures affecting large parts of the country.
Central Macedonia, Thessaly, Central Greece, Aetolia Acarnania and the Peloponnese are among the regions expected to experience the most intense conditions.
The heatwave follows several other periods of extreme summer temperatures. Earlier in August, temperatures in Greece approached 40°C, while a more severe heatwave in July pushed temperatures as high as 43°C in some areas.
Advice for staying safe
Authorities and health experts recommend limiting exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day, particularly between noon and 5 p.m.
Older people, young children, pregnant women and those with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions should take particular care during the heatwave.
Residents and visitors are advised to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak temperatures and wear lightweight clothing and a hat when outdoors.
People should also never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, even for a short period, as temperatures inside a closed car can rise rapidly.
With the heat expected to continue through the middle of next week, Greece is facing another challenging stretch of summer weather before temperatures are forecast to gradually ease.
