Greece is bracing for another spell of extreme summer heat with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 42°C (107°F) in parts of the country. The heatwave is expected to push temperatures well above seasonal norms, raising renewed concerns about heat stress and wildfire conditions during the final weeks of August.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service had already forecast a steady rise in temperatures, with much of the mainland expected to become significantly hotter as the week progressed. While the exact locations expected to reach 42°C should be confirmed in the latest official weather bulletin, the forecast would mark another period of extreme heat following a summer in which Greece has repeatedly experienced temperatures over 40°C (104°F).
Another bout of extreme heat
Greece endured a major heatwave in July, when temperatures reached 41°C (105°F) and 42°C (107°F) across several mainland regions, with isolated areas believed to have had even higher temperatures. The hottest conditions were concentrated in parts of Thessaly, Central Greece, and the Peloponnese, while Athens also faced temperatures around 40°C.
Authorities introduced special measures during that earlier heatwave, including protections for workers and adjustments to the operation of public services as temperatures soared. The latest forecast comes after a summer marked not only by intense heat but also by a heightened risk of wildfires. Civil Protection has repeatedly placed regions on elevated fire alert during periods of high temperatures and heavy winds.
Visitors and residents urged to take precautions
Extreme temperatures can pose particular risks to elderly people, young children, and those with underlying health conditions. Visitors unfamiliar with Greece’s summer heat are also advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, remain hydrated, and seek cool or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
Civil Protection maintains heatwave guidance for the public and directs residents and visitors to follow official forecasts and emergency instructions.
The precise duration and regional intensity of the approaching heatwave will depend on updated forecasts from the National Meteorological Service. However, with temperatures potentially reaching 42°C, Greece could soon face another reminder that the summer of 2026 has brought repeated periods of extreme weather.
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