Greece faces first summer heatwave, emergency services on high alert

Greece is bracing for its first heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to soar to as high as 42 degrees Celsius, according to the latest forecast from Greek national broadcaster ERT on Monday. People seek relief from soaring temperatures as a heatwave affects Athens, Greece, July 20, 2026. /VCG People seek relief from soaring temperatures as a heatwave affects Athens, Greece, July 20, 2026. /VCG Exceptionally high temperatures are forecast to persist across much of the country through Wednesday, with highs expected to locally reach 42 degrees Celsius in Thessaly, eastern Central Greece and the Peloponnese, ERT reported.The Hellenic Red Cross has urged the public to take precautions against the extreme heat, including avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, staying well hydrated, and paying special attention to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children and outdoor workers. Tourists visit the Temple of Hephaestus at the Ancient Agora during a heatwave in Athens, Greece, July 20, 2026. /VCG Tourists visit the Temple of Hephaestus at the Ancient Agora during a heatwave in Athens, Greece, July 20, 2026. /VCG The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection convened its Risk Assessment Committee on Sunday, warning that temperatures would exceed 40 degrees Celsius in many mainland areas through Wednesday.The ministry said emergency services would remain on heightened alert throughout the heatwave and urged the public to avoid activities that could trigger wildfires. Source(s): Xinhua News Agency