The severe heatwave that has gripped Greece is finally easing, with temperatures dropping below 40 degrees Celsius, but forecasters are now warning of widespread rain and strong thunderstorms expected to hit the country later this week.
For the first time in several days, no weather station in Greece recorded temperatures of 40 C (104 F) on Monday, the National Observatory of Athens reported. The highest reading was 39.8 C in Stylida.
Meteorologist Klearhos Marousakis of Meteo.gr said a significant cooldown will begin Wednesday, but it will be followed by severe weather.
"We expect a clash of two air masses: a cold front from the northern Balkans colliding with the existing hot air over Greece, causing instability with heavy rain, intense lightning, and hail," Mr. Marousakis said.
The storms are expected to begin Thursday afternoon and affect central and northern areas, with a risk of strong downpours and localized flooding.
The shift in weather follows a prolonged period of extreme heat that fueled wildfires across the country.