Greece prepares for second heat wave with wildfire risks

Greece is expecting a second major heatwave this summer, with temperatures forecast to rise above 40°C from Sunday, prompting warnings about public health impacts and heightened wildfire risks across multiple regions.

A 'heat dome' phenomenon is moving eastward from Western Europe with temperatures expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius starting on Sunday, according to local media and meteorologists.

Scientist Kostas Lagouvardos explained that the heat dome occurs when warm air masses from Africa become stationary due to high-pressure systems, heating the region significantly.

Unlike the recent Western European heat wave, Greece’s temperatures are forecast to be 5 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal but may persist longer, especially in urban areas where night temperatures remain elevated.

The heat dome is expected to bring typical northern winds rather than direct African air, which could raise temperatures particularly in Athens and its southern suburbs.

Meanwhile, the Civil Protection and Climate Crisis Ministry has issued warnings about very high wildfire risks across much of Greece, including Athens, central Greece, the Peloponnese, and the northern Aegean.

Authorities have been advised to prepare for potential fires, and the public is urged to avoid outdoor activities that could trigger blazes.

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