Greece prepares for first heatwave of 2024

(MENAFN) Greece is bracing itself for the onset of the year's first heatwave, anticipated to commence on Tuesday, according to Climate Crisis Minister Vassilis Kikilias. He cautioned that temperatures are forecasted to soar above 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a heightened risk of wildfires, particularly in expansive regions across the country. Kikilias emphasized that this heatwave is expected to persist for three days, peaking on Wednesday and Thursday, posing significant challenges in terms of fire prevention and management.

The Greek meteorological service has projected temperatures to reach 42 degrees Celsius in the central areas of the country. Recent days have already seen soaring temperatures, with Athens experiencing temperatures as high as 38 degrees Celsius, exacerbating concerns regarding the potential for wildfires. Kikilias urged Greek citizens to remain vigilant and collaborate closely to safeguard both lives and the environment. The country has been contending with a concerning frequency of forest fires, with reports indicating between 30 to 40 incidents daily thus far.

Despite the official commencement of the summer season remaining imminent, Greece has already experienced record-breaking temperatures, with the first week of June witnessing readings as high as 39.3 degrees Celsius. The nation, accustomed to heatwaves, still bears the scars of the devastating fires and prolonged heatwave experienced in 2023, which endured for a staggering two weeks—an unprecedented duration. Against the backdrop of the hottest winter on record, fears loom over the prospect of an exceptionally challenging summer, particularly concerning the heightened risk of forest fires, as highlighted by Kikilias in recent statements.

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