Greece prepares for unprecedented heatwave

Greece is preparing for a dangerous heatwave with record temperatures and protective actions by authorities.

Greece faces extreme heat, government implements emergency measures

Greece is preparing for a severe heatwave starting Monday, with temperatures expected to soar as high as 43 degrees Celsius. The National Meteorological Service predicts that extreme conditions will affect the country until at least Wednesday, with heat stress posing significant risks to vulnerable populations. Areas such as central Macedonia and Thessaly will experience the worst of the heat, with Athens and Thessaloniki close behind. In light of these forecasts, the Ministry of Labor has implemented a work suspension for outdoor labor during the hottest hours of the day, and various government agencies are coordinating their responses effectively.

This heatwave presents urgent public health challenges and showcases the vulnerability of certain groups to extreme weather. As climate change continues to manifest through more frequent and intense heat events, the Greek government's decisive actions stand as a necessary precedent. It highlights the importance of community and state partnerships in ensuring safety and health, especially for at-risk populations such as the elderly and outdoor workers. The response will likely be scrutinized, and future strategies may need to adapt to include more comprehensive plans for heat response and infrastructure resilience.

Highlights

As Greece endures extreme heat, effective management and community support will be crucial for public health.