Greece remained in the grip of a prolonged heatwave Sunday, with temperatures forecast to reach 40 degrees Celsius on the mainland and 35 to 37 C across the islands.
The National Meteorological Service said the country would remain unusually hot for late August, with the most intense conditions expected in central mainland regions.
Saturday’s highest temperature reached 40.7 C in Trikala, followed by 40.6 C in Kalambaka, according to the National Observatory of Athens’ Meteo network.
Temperatures also reached 40.4 C in Koromilia in the Phthiotis region and in the towns of Farsala and Makrakomi. Karditsa recorded 40.3 C, while readings of 40.2 C were reported in parts of Kilkis and Grevena.
Sunday is expected to remain mostly sunny, with temporary cloud cover developing over mainland areas during the afternoon.
Local rain or showers were possible in mountainous areas, while morning visibility could be reduced in parts of western Greece.
Northern and northwestern winds were forecast at 3 to 5 on the Beaufort scale, strengthening locally to 6 in coastal and sea areas. The winds could bring some relief to Attica, the Cyclades and northern Crete early next week, forecasters said.
The heatwave is expected to persist for six to seven days, with temperatures in some inland areas potentially reaching 41 to 42 C.
Forecasters described the episode as notable primarily for its duration rather than exceptionally extreme peak temperatures.
The combination of high temperatures, dry vegetation and stronger winds has increased wildfire concerns, prompting authorities to maintain heightened readiness across fire-prone regions.