A powerful and potentially dangerous heatwave is sweeping into Greece starting Monday, marking the country’s most extreme heat event of the year—and one of the strongest in recent years, according to AFP.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) has warned that temperatures will soar to 43–44°C (109°F–111°F) on Tuesday and Wednesday, the expected peak of the scorching episode.
On Sunday, EMY announced that the extremely high temperatures are forecasted to persist “through most of the week.” The heatwave is expected to peak midweek and “likely subside by Saturday,” the agency said, citing AFP.
Starting Monday, central Greece is expected to see highs of 41°C, while Athens and Thessaloniki will face temperatures climbing from 38°C to as high as 40°C.
According to the Greek publication Ekathimerini, the heatwave is being fueled by hot air masses from Africa, pushing temperatures 10°C above seasonal norms in some regions. Certain parts of the country could experience temperatures reaching 44°C, it reports.
Meteorologist Thodoris Kolydas, quoted by Ekathimerini, confirmed that the hottest days will be Tuesday and Wednesday, highlighting the unusual intensity of this heatwave.
Experts are warning that this is one of the most severe heatwaves in recent memory, with serious implications for public health and daily life. Not only does the suffocating heat disrupt daily routines, but it also amplifies air pollution levels, compounding the risks.
“The triple combination of heatwaves, airborne particulate matter, and ozone is extremely harmful—especially for people with existing health problems, such as respiratory conditions, asthma, or cardiovascular diseases,” said Dimosthenis Sarigiannis, Professor of Environmental Engineering at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
Authorities are urging both residents and tourists to stay indoors during peak hours and to prioritize hydration and sun protection to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Greece has already endured two significant heatwaves earlier this summer, in late June and early July, which forced officials to shorten visiting hours at the country’s most iconic landmark, the Acropolis in Athens.