Greek authorities warn of impending weeklong heat wave in Greece and North Macedonia

Greek authorities have issued a warning about an upcoming weeklong heatwave in the midst of the summer tourist season, raising concerns about the high risk of dangerous wildfires in southern Europe. The Ministry for Civil Protection and Climate Change stated that temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius would persist until July 19 due to southwesterly winds from Africa. This heatwave follows the hottest June on record in Greece and globally, according to Copernicus, the European climate service. To mitigate risks, people are advised to wear light clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. Emergency measures have been implemented, including restrictions on outdoor work and precautions for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and the elderly. The scorching temperatures have led to a surge in heat-related health problems, prompting health officials to report an increase in emergency calls. North Macedonia has also experienced a rise in wildfires, with 14 incidents recorded in the past 24 hours. Greece is facing a particularly perilous wildfire season, marked by a lack of rainfall in winter and spring that has left vegetation dry and susceptible to fires. Despite efforts to contain wildfires, several blazes have broken out in northern Greece, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and preventive measures to curb the spread of fires. In response to the escalating wildfire risk, Greek authorities have evacuated vulnerable facilities like a children's hospital and a retirement home as a precautionary measure. The Minister for Civil Protection highlighted the unprecedented challenges posed by this summer's extreme weather conditions, emphasizing the heightened threat of fires due to the combination of high temperatures and strong winds. With nearly 1,300 wildfires reported across the country last month, the situation remains critical, prompting international warnings for travelers visiting Greece to exercise caution and adhere to fire prevention guidelines. The British government has issued a travel advisory cautioning visitors about the elevated risk of wildfires in Greece during the summer season, urging vigilance and responsible behavior to prevent accidental fires. The unpredictable nature of wildfires underscores the importance of prompt reporting and adherence to safety protocols to minimize the impact of fires on communities and natural landscapes. As authorities remain on high alert, the public is urged to remain informed, stay prepared, and prioritize safety measures to mitigate the threat of wildfires during this challenging period.