Greece appears to 'resist' extreme heat this year

Greece is currently grappling with its first summer heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius in many areas. The heatwave, which began Sunday, is expected to persist until Thursday. However, experts and everyday observations indicate that Greece has managed the heat relatively well, especially when contrasted with regions in Europe that have recently endured severe heat.

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According to the latest forecast from the HNMS, temperatures will remain high, reaching locally 39 to 40 degrees Celsius in continental areas.

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) forecasts high temperatures, reaching up to 39-40 degrees Celsius inland. The Ministry of Health has issued a circular with guidelines for preventing heat-related illnesses, emphasizing the recognition of symptoms such as severe headaches, fatigue, dizziness, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat.

Despite the current heatwave, this summer has shown a notable resilience so far. While Southern and Southwestern European countries are facing extreme heat, leading to a rush for air conditioners, Greece appears to be in a more favorable position. This summer resembles 2022, which was relatively mild for Greece while Western and Southwestern Europe experienced intense heatwaves and wildfires.

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The overall assessment this year's Greek summer seems – so far – to have a particular 'resistance' to the heat.

Konstantinos Lagouvardos, Research Director at the National Observatory of Athens (NOA), noted that while June and the first half of July were relatively smooth, the current heatwave needs to be monitored. A heatwave is defined by temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius for over three consecutive days, coupled with high nighttime minimums. These criteria are currently met, but Lagouvardos stresses it's a typical, strong summer heatwave requiring caution for vulnerable groups, not an extreme one.

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This summer seems to resemble that of 2022. In 2022, Greece had a relatively mild summer, while Western and Southwestern Europe experienced very hot weather with major fires and heatwaves. This year, June and the first half of July passed relatively smoothly.

Regarding the climate crisis, Lagouvardos explained that while it increases the frequency and duration of heatwaves over time, it doesn't guarantee a steady, monotonic rise each summer. High nighttime temperatures in urban centers like Athens are a significant concern.

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The criteria for a heatwave are met. It is a common, strong summer heatwave that requires attention, mainly for the most vulnerable, but it is not extreme in any way.