Greece Endures Relentless Heat as Intense Heatwave Persists Into the Week

Greece remains gripped by a prolonged and intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring as high as 41°C in several parts of the country. According to the National Meteorological Service (EMY), the scorching weather will persist until at least Thursday, with only gradual relief expected in the western regions. The eastern mainland, Aegean islands, and southern areas will continue to experience high temperatures well into the new week.

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The heatwave, among the strongest the country has seen in recent years, has brought persistent clear skies, minimal rainfall, and dangerous levels of heat stress — especially in urban areas like Athens and Thessaloniki.

Weather Overview

On Sunday, clear skies are forecast nationwide, with isolated afternoon cloud development expected in mountainous regions of northern Greece. There is a slight chance of brief, localized showers in these areas, but no significant rainfall is expected to bring relief.

Winds will vary in direction throughout the day. In the west, northwesterly winds of 4 to 6 Beaufort will prevail, while in the east and southern seas, afternoon sea breezes and westerly winds will dominate, occasionally reaching up to 6 Beaufort in strength — a potential hazard for beachgoers and maritime activity.

Regional Highs and Lows

• Attica: Clear skies with temperatures between 26°C and 41°C. Morning winds from the north-northwest will shift to southerly directions by the afternoon.

• Thessaloniki: Mostly sunny with some afternoon cloudiness. Temperatures will reach up to 39°C, with variable winds turning southeast later in the day.

• Cyclades & Crete: Generally clear. Local highs of 37°C in parts of Crete, with strong northerly winds transitioning westward in the evening.

• Eastern Aegean & Dodecanese: Heat remains a concern with highs around 39°C. Winds will be moderate from the north, turning west by midday.

• Western Greece (Ionian, Epirus): A gradual temperature decline begins here, with highs around 38°C, dropping slightly in island areas. Afternoon clouds may bring isolated brief rain.

Outlook Through Thursday

Monday, July 28:
While the heatwave continues, a slight dip in temperatures is expected in the west. Afternoon clouds may appear in mountainous northern areas, with a small chance of short-lived showers.
Maximum temperatures will range between 36°C and 40°C, with cooler conditions along the western coast and Ionian Islands.

Tuesday, July 29:
Early clouds and light rain are forecast for the Ionian Sea and western mainland. Central and northern regions may see afternoon showers. The rest of the country remains mostly dry and hot.
Temperatures will drop further across the country.

Wednesday, July 30:
Mostly clear with some localized morning fog in mountainous western areas. Afternoon clouds in the north may bring light rain.
Temperatures will hold steady, but remain high in the east.

Thursday, July 31:
The heatwave is expected to finally ease as clouds and scattered showers spread across the mainland, especially in the north. Isolated thunderstorms could develop in mountainous areas.
Temperatures will remain stable but slightly more comfortable overall.

Heatwave Safety Reminder

Authorities are urging the public to take precautions as the extreme heat continues. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during midday hours, and check in on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Fire risk also remains very high in much of the country due to dry conditions and strong winds.

Source: pagenews.gr