A dangerous heatwave began to sweep across Greece on Monday, with authorities issuing health alerts and placing the country on high fire alert as temperatures are forecast to climb above 40°C (104°F) by midweek.
The country’s National Meteorological Service issued a yellow alert for the greater Athens region of Attica, warning that the first major heatwave of the summer will peak on Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures in some inland areas, including the regions of Thessaly and the Peloponnese, are expected to reach as high as 42°C (108°F).
Meteorologists attribute the intense heat to a mass of hot air moving in from North Africa, combined with weakening winds that typically provide some relief.
The extreme conditions have prompted authorities to urge the public, particularly the elderly, children, and those with chronic health issues, to take precautions.
Officials are advising people to avoid sun exposure during the hottest part of the day, stay hydrated, and seek out air-conditioned spaces.
Many municipalities are expected to open public cooling centers to provide relief for vulnerable residents.
The combination of high temperatures and dry conditions has also significantly raised the risk of wildfires, and the Hellenic Fire Service remains on high alert across the country.