As the summer progresses, Greece is preparing for one of the most intense heatwaves of the year, expected to sweep across the country next week. Meteorologists predict that temperatures will exceed 40°C, with certain areas reaching as high as 45°C.
The heatwave will not only affect daytime temperatures but will also create discomfort during the night, with high nighttime lows. This extreme weather phenomenon is anticipated to begin gradually on Sunday, July 20th, and will likely persist at least until Friday, July 25th, with the possibility of an extension.
Forecast by experts
Meteorologists, such as Thodoris Kolyda, have analyzed the upcoming heatwave and warned that Sunday and Monday (July 20th and 21st) will serve as a precursor to the extreme heat, with the full effect being felt starting Tuesday, July 22nd. Temperatures in many areas are expected to soar to 41-42°C, especially in inland regions, with some localized peaks even reaching higher values. The heatwave will likely last throughout the week, peaking around Friday, July 25th.
Giannis Kallianos, a well-known meteorologist from Mega, has forecasted an extended heatwave lasting six days, from Monday to Saturday. He has also highlighted that certain regions, such as Thessaly (specifically Larissa, Trikala, and Karditsa), Eastern Central Greece (mainly Phthiotis and Boeotia), and the eastern Peloponnese (particularly Argolis, Corinth, and Laconia), will be most severely affected by the extreme temperatures.
Which areas will see the highest temperatures?
According to Kolyda, the highest temperatures will likely occur in the plains of Thessaly, the Boeotia region, and parts of the eastern Peloponnese. In Athens, temperatures will rise to 40°C starting Monday, with highs of 42°C expected on Wednesday and Thursday. Even during the night, the temperature will remain high, with nighttime lows still around 35°C.
Experts are urging people to stay informed and take necessary precautions, as these conditions could lead to health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.
The role of the winds and sea breezes
Clearchos Marousakis also noted the potential effects of the “meltemi” winds, which will occur primarily over the Aegean Sea. While the sea breezes may help provide some relief along coastal regions, they will also increase the risk of wildfires due to dry conditions.
The heatwave is set to combine with these winds, which could lead to local temperature spikes beyond the forecasted levels. Marousakis further emphasized that while temperatures above 40°C are not unprecedented, the prolonged nature of the heatwave, combined with night temperatures above 30°C, will exacerbate discomfort for many people.
What to expect: A week of extreme heat
In short, the upcoming week promises to be one of the hottest stretches of the summer, with many parts of Greece experiencing temperatures that could hit or surpass 40°C. Both daytime highs and nighttime lows are expected to challenge residents’ comfort levels, with special attention needed for those living in cities, where heat will be trapped in urban areas.
If the forecasts hold true, this will be a heatwave to remember. Be prepared, stay hydrated, and take care of yourself and others during this challenging period.
