Greece is now firmly in the grip of a major heatwave, with Tuesday marking the second consecutive day of the extreme weather event, which is forecast to persist throughout the week. Temperatures continue to rise steadily across the country.

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) warns of exceptionally high temperatures across the mainland, the Ionian, and the eastern Aegean. Athens and Thessaloniki are expected to see highs of 40°C, with eastern Sterea and the eastern Peloponnese reaching 42°C, and Thessaly peaking at 43°C.

Wednesday is projected to bring an additional increase in temperatures nationwide.

On Monday, temperatures already exceeded 41°C, with notable highs in Karditsa (41.8°C), Thebes and Farsala (41.7°C), and Sparta (41.1°C).

Winds will remain light, blowing from variable directions at 3 to 4 Beaufort in the west and north, and from the northwest at 3 to 5 Beaufort in other regions.

Extended Heatwave Duration EMY has updated its special weather bulletin, stating that the heatwave may now extend until Sunday, not Saturday as previously forecast.

National Preparedness and Civil Protection Measures The government has activated full civil protection protocols. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has advised regional authorities and municipalities to prepare for the risks associated with prolonged extreme heat. Citizens, especially vulnerable populations, are urged to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Public Health and Safety Recommendations Authorities advise citizens to:

• Stay in cool, shaded environments, use fans or air conditioning, and avoid strenuous activity in hot and humid areas.
• Avoid direct sun exposure; wear hats, sunglasses, and light-colored, breathable clothing.
• Consume light meals rich in fruits and vegetables and stay hydrated with water and juices, avoiding alcohol.
• Pay special attention to infants, children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses.

Workplace Safety and Regulations The Ministry of Labour has issued a directive requiring employers in high-risk areas to implement protective measures against heat stress for workers. On Tuesday, July 22, outdoor manual labor in certain regions will be prohibited between 12:00 and 17:00. Affected areas include parts of Attica, Thessaly, Central Macedonia, Evros, Boeotia, and several islands.

This ban applies to all forms of employment, including digital platform workers. Delivery services using two-wheelers are also suspended during these hours, though take-away and delivery by other vehicle types may continue.

Critical infrastructure sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and utilities are exempt, provided they follow safety measures outlined in Circular No. 34666/03.06.2024.

Remote Work Provisions Employers must allow remote work for employees in high-risk groups where job duties permit. Flexibility in work schedules is also encouraged, and temporary changes in shift times do not need to be pre-registered in the ERGANI system.

EMY Weather Forecast Highlights

• High temperatures will persist throughout the week, with a potential end to the heatwave on Sunday, July 27.
• Inland areas will see maximum temperatures above 41°C starting Tuesday.
• Coastal regions will experience temperatures 2 to 4 degrees lower.
• Urban minimum temperatures will remain high, around 27 to 29°C.

Forecast by Region

Mainland Greece: 39-41°C, with peaks of 42-43°C in Thessaly, eastern Sterea, and the eastern Peloponnese. Athens & Thessaloniki: 39-40°C. Ionian Islands: 36-38°C. Eastern Aegean & Dodecanese: 37-39°C, potentially reaching 40°C by Wednesday. Cyclades & Crete: 34-36°C.

Winds: Mostly variable at 3 to 4 Beaufort; some regions will see northwest winds of 3 to 5 Beaufort.

Additional Notes EMY will update its special bulletin every 24 hours, revising daily temperatures and the estimated end date of the heatwave.