Relentless Heatwave, Greece Braces for Peak Temperatures Through the Weekend

We’re halfway through the week, but not yet halfway through the intense heatwave set to grip the country until at least Sunday. Today is Wednesday, July 23, and the sweltering conditions are expected to intensify further.

The National Meteorological Service (EMY) has issued warnings for extreme temperatures today, forecasting highs of 39°C to 41°C on the mainland, with some areas potentially reaching 43°C. In Athens and Thessaloniki, the mercury is expected to climb to 39°C or 40°C. Experts warn that this may be one of the hottest days of the heatwave.

Importantly, minimum overnight temperatures remain high—between 27°C and 29°C—particularly in urban areas, offering little nighttime relief.

Tuesday’s Scorching Records

Yesterday, temperatures soared to extreme levels, with readings close to 45°C. Specifically, 44.9°C was recorded in Tragana, 44.8°C in Larissa, and 44.6°C in Karditsa.

Meteorologist Giannis Kallianos reported that these were the highest maximum temperatures recorded in Europe on Tuesday, based on data from the Ogimet network.

Civil Protection Issues Precautionary Guidelines

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has reiterated calls for vigilance amid the ongoing heatwave. Relevant government departments, regional authorities, and municipalities have been placed on high alert to respond swiftly to any heat-related emergencies.

People in vulnerable groups—such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions—are urged to take special care to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Public Health Recommendations

Citizens are advised to follow these self-protection guidelines:

• Stay Cool: Remain in shaded or air-conditioned areas and avoid crowded places. Use fans or air conditioners where possible.
• Avoid Outdoor Activity: Refrain from sunbathing or strenuous physical activity, especially during peak heat hours. Wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing—preferably made of natural fabrics.
• Eat Light: Opt for light meals rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid fatty foods.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and natural juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Take Extra Care of Vulnerable Groups: Ensure babies, young children, elderly people, and those with chronic illnesses are kept cool and well-hydrated.

EMY Forecast

The EMY warns that the heatwave will persist, with the highest temperatures expected on Thursday (July 24) and Friday (July 25). A gradual decline is anticipated from Sunday (July 27).

Key points:

• Minimum temperatures will remain high, around 27–29°C, especially in cities.
• Strong northern winds (up to 6 Beaufort) are expected to develop from Friday in eastern regions and the Aegean, intensifying on Saturday.

Forecast Breakdown

Wednesday, July 23

• Mainland: 39–41°C; up to 43°C in Thessaly, eastern Sterea, and eastern Peloponnese.
• Athens & Thessaloniki: 39–40°C.
• East Aegean & Dodecanese: 37–39°C; locally 40–41°C.
• Ionian Islands & Crete: 37–38°C.

Thursday, July 24

• Mainland: 39–41°C; locally 42–43°C in eastern areas.
• Athens: 41–42°C. Thessaloniki: 40°C.
• East Aegean & Dodecanese: 38–40°C.
• Ionian Islands & Crete: 37–39°C.

Friday, July 25

• Mainland: 40–41°C; locally 42–43°C in the west.
• Athens: 41–42°C. Thessaloniki: 39°C.
• East Aegean & Dodecanese: 38–40°C.
• Ionian Islands: 38–40°C.
• Southern Crete: 39°C.

Regional Forecasts (Wednesday, July 23)

General Conditions

• Clear skies throughout most of the country.
• Some cloud development over northern mountain areas in the afternoon.
• Light variable winds, 3–5 Beaufort at sea.
• Persistently high temperatures across all regions.

Macedonia & Thrace

• Winds: Variable, 2–3 Beaufort; eastern coasts up to 4 Beaufort by evening.
• Temperatures: 24–41°C; locally 42°C in Central Macedonia. Western Macedonia will be 3–4°C cooler.

Ionian Islands, Epirus, Western Greece

• Winds: Northwestern, 3–5 Beaufort; southern Ionian may reach 6 Beaufort.
• Temperatures: 23–38°C, locally 39–41°C inland. Epirus cooler by 3–4°C.

Thessaly, Central Greece, Evia, Eastern Peloponnese

• Winds: Variable 3 Beaufort; eastern coastal areas up to 4 Beaufort in the afternoon.
• Temperatures: 24–42°C; Thessaly may reach 43°C. Sporades: up to 35–36°C.

Cyclades & Crete

• Weather: Mostly clear with light cloud in the Cyclades during afternoon hours.
• Winds: Northwest, 3–5 Beaufort.
• Temperatures: 25–36°C; locally 37–38°C in Crete.

East Aegean & Dodecanese

• Winds: North-northwest, 3–5 Beaufort.
• Temperatures: 25–41°C.

Attica (Athens Region)

• Winds: Variable 3–4 Beaufort; southern flow in afternoon.
• Temperatures: 26–40°C.

Thessaloniki

• Winds: Variable, 3 Beaufort; light southern breeze in afternoon.
• Temperatures: 26–40°C.