Athens, Greece. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK Heatwave Intensifies in Greece. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 43 degrees Celsius today in certain parts of Greece, marking the hottest day of the current heat wave. In Athens, peak temperatures will range between 41 and 42 degrees. The higher temperatures are anticipated in more inland areas.
This update follows a forecast released earlier this week, which predicted 40 degrees, but the figures have since been revised upwards.
Today's maximum forecast temperatures across several key regions and islands in Greece are as follows: Thessaloniki 37 degrees, Meteora 38 degrees, Lindos on Rhodes 40 degrees, Lesbos 38 degrees, Crete "only" 33 degrees, Santorini 31 degrees, and Mykonos 29 degrees.
As has happened previously, popular tourist sites will be closed to visitors today (24.7) due to the intense heat, most notably the Acropolis in Athens, where public entry will not be permitted between 12:00 and 17:00. Several other outdoor sites will also be closed during peak hours in Athens and all archaeological sites across the islands.
Approximately two weeks ago, as we reported, even non-essential workplaces paused operations during the height of the heat wave to minimize health risks to citizens.
The Greek government has issued special warnings for residents and tourists alike, recommending to drink plenty of water, eat light foods, wear light clothing, use sunblock, and avoid extensive physical activity, particularly between 11:00 and 17:00.