Authorities urged residents and tourists to take precautions Thursday as Greece headed into a prolonged spell of hot weather, with temperatures forecast to hit 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the country in the coming days.
Temperatures on the mainland are expected to reach 38°C Thursday before rising further Friday, when highs of 39-40°C are forecast in some areas. Mostly clear skies are expected across the country, although brief showers are possible in the mountains of western and northern Greece.
Authorities are advising people to avoid the sun and strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day and to stay in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces where possible. Particular care should be taken to protect young children, older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
People who venture outside are advised to wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and loose, breathable clothing. Authorities also recommend lighter meals, plenty of water or natural juices and avoiding alcohol.
Attica is forecast to reach 35-36°C on Thursday, while temperatures in Thessaloniki will climb to 34-35°C. The Ionian islands will see highs of 33-34°C, compared with 31-32°C in the Cyclades and Crete and up to 36°C on the eastern Aegean islands and the Dodecanese.
