The extensive use of fireplaces to warm homes created a thick veil of smog over Athens last night, despite the joint statement issued by the Ministries of Health and Environment on Tuesday asking households to limit unnecessary use.

More specifically, the two Ministries had asked the citizens, mostly in urban areas, to refrain from burning wood to stay warm, given that the temperatures are not particularly low. This statement aimed at preventing a serious environmental issue than can aggravate respiratory problems and make the atmosphere in Athens and other big cities unbearable.

During the last two years, the increased use o fireplaces triggered by the rise in heating fuel prices left the Greek capital covered in a thick blanket of smog.

The elderly and asthma sufferers are advised to avoid any heavy physical activity, especially outdoors, in Athens and other urban areas where the atmospheric pollution is at dangerous levels.