Greece braces for heatwave with temperatures reaching 39C

Greece is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures set to soar across the country on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

The National Meteorological Service forecasts highs of 36 to 38 degrees Celsius in mainland areas, with temperatures potentially reaching 39 degrees Celsius in parts of southern Greece and the Attica region. In the islands, temperatures will range from 34 to 36 degrees Celsius, with southern Crete possibly experiencing up to 38 degrees Celsius.

Most regions are expected to have generally clear skies. However, Macedonia might experience temporary cloudiness accompanied by localized showers and isolated thunderstorms. These conditions are most likely in the mountainous areas of central and eastern Macedonia during the afternoon hours. A smaller chance of similar weather exists in other mountainous mainland areas.

Wind conditions are predicted to be generally light and variable across most areas. Over the seas, winds will blow from the west-northwest at 3 to 5 Beaufort, potentially reaching up to 6 Beaufort in some locations. The temperature is not expected to change significantly from the day's highs.

Specific forecasts for various regions include: Macedonia and Thrace will see generally clear skies in Thrace, while Macedonia may have transient clouds and local showers. The Ionian Islands, Epirus, western Sterea, and western Peloponnese will be mostly clear with slight chances of afternoon showers in mountainous areas. Thessaly, eastern Sterea, Evia, and eastern Peloponnese will also be clear with minor chances of afternoon showers in the mountains. The Cyclades and Crete will remain clear, as will the islands of the eastern Aegean and the Dodecanese. Attica is forecast to be generally clear with light winds.