Heatwave Looms Over Greece, Temperatures to Approach 40 Degrees Celsius

Greece is set to experience a significant heatwave in the coming days, with temperatures predicted to climb sharply and potentially reach 40 degrees Celsius in many continental areas by the weekend. Meteorologists attribute the impending heat to hot air masses moving in from North Africa.

The temperature rise is expected to become more noticeable from Thursday onwards. While the weather will generally remain fair, localized showers and thunderstorms may occur over the mainland. The highest temperatures are forecast for the weekend, with the mercury possibly hitting or nearing the 40-degree mark in several parts of continental Greece.

For Wednesday, the forecast indicates generally clear skies with some clouds developing in the afternoon over inland areas and Crete. Isolated showers are possible in mountainous regions, and there's a chance of isolated storms in central and eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Winds will be mostly light, but could reach up to force 5 in the southeast. Temperatures are expected to range between 31-37 degrees Celsius.

Athens and Thessaloniki will also see rising temperatures. In Athens, the weather will be mostly good with some afternoon clouds and a chance of brief rain in the northern and western parts, with temperatures reaching 34-35 degrees. Thessaloniki can expect local clouds and showers, particularly in the surrounding mountainous areas, with temperatures around 34 degrees.

Starting Thursday, the atmospheric instability is expected to decrease significantly, while northerly winds in the Aegean Sea will strengthen. The temperature will begin its noticeable ascent, reaching up to 38 degrees Celsius on Thursday and continuing to climb to 38-39 degrees on Friday. The heat is anticipated to persist for several days into the following week.

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The hot air masses from North Africa will affect a large part of the country, keeping temperatures at particularly high levels for several days.