Greece Braces for Heatwave With Temperatures of Up to 111°F

Greece prepares for a significant heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 44°C [111.2°F] in some regions next week. Credit: AMNA

Greece is preparing for the most intense heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to soar well above 40°C (104°F) early next week.

This weekend, Athens and other mainland regions are expected to see high but manageable temperatures of around 33-36°C (91-97°F). A swift rise in temperatures across the country is expected on Monday, July 21st.

Meteorologists forecast that many areas across the country, particularly in Central Greece and the Peloponnese, will potentially hit 42-44°C (108-111°F) by Tuesday and Wednesday of next week, worsening conditions compared to today.

Northern Greece is expected to see temperatures around 39-40°C (102-104°F) and potentially even up to 41-42°C (106-108°F) in some interior mainland areas such as the plain of Central Macedonia and Thessaly.

For the Greek islands, where millions of people are currently vacationing, temperatures will generally be slightly cooler due to sea breezes, ranging from 36-38°C (97-100°F) on the Ionian and Aegean islands. Crete is expected to experience highs of up to 36°C (97°F), with coastal areas typically being 2-4°C (35-40°F) cooler than the interior mainland.

This prolonged period of extreme heat is anticipated to last for approximately five days, prompting urgent warnings from civil protection authorities to those with health issues as well as those who work outdoors.

Not the first heatwave in Greece

This isn’t Greece’s first heatwave of the summer. The country has already experienced high temperatures, including one bout in late June, during which temperatures skyrocketed to as high as 43 degrees Celsius [109.4°F]. This led to partial closures of historical sites like the Acropolis to protect visitors, something that is expected to be repeated again next week, although no decision has been made as of yet.

Wildfires are a persistent threat under these conditions, with the Greek authorities advising extreme caution. The upcoming heatwave in Greece is part of a broader pattern of extreme heat impacting Europe this summer. Western Europe experienced its warmest June on record, with average temperatures surpassing previous highs.

From late June to mid-July, several heatwaves have swept across the continent, pushing temperatures above 40°C (104°F) in numerous countries, not only in the South but also central and northern Europe, too.

The Acropolis closed down during the last heatwave, something that might happen again next week. Credit: Greek Reporter

Spain and Portugal recorded national June temperature records, with some areas reaching 46°C (115°F). France also saw temperatures peak at 41°C (106°F), leading to emergency measures including school closures and even the temporary closure of the Eiffel Tower.

Experts attribute the increased frequency and intensity of these heat waves to a high-pressure system, often referred to as a “heat dome,” which traps hot air over the continent. Coupled with the overarching trend of climate change, which has made heatwaves more severe and frequent, the once-rare heatwaves now seem to be the new normal for most of Europe, including Greece.

Greek authorities ask that residents and tourists exercise caution during extreme temperatures: stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 AM to 5 PM), seek shaded or air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable individuals.

Business Wire