Greece First Heatwave Season: Preparing for Summer Challenges.
Early first heatwave in Greece and Crete
Table of Contents
Greece is bracing for an intense heatwave that is expected to last three days, with temperatures forecasted to exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). The civil protection minister, Vassilis Kikilias, has warned that the heat will reach its peak on Wednesday and Thursday, and the wildfire risk will be elevated to a very high level.
Meteorologists have cautioned that temperatures could climb as high as 43 degrees Celsius this week before cooling down over the weekend. While heatwaves are not uncommon in the region, traditionally occurring in July and August, experts note that a June heatwave is quite unusual, marking it as an “early” occurrence.
Remote Working During Heatwave in Greece
In light of the recent heatwave in Greece, the Interior Ministry has issued guidelines to ensure the safety of workers. Temperatures are expected to soar above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) over the next few days, prompting the government to take significant measures. Civil servants classified as vulnerable due to health conditions are advised to work from home during this period. This guideline is set to last at least until Thursday to protect these employees.
Recommendations for Other Workers:
- Stay Indoors: Employees who usually work outdoors should avoid activities during the peak heat hours, typically from noon to 5 p.m.
- Work from Home: Other civil servants may also request to work remotely if feasible.
Impact on Schools and Public Sites:
- Schools in Athens and other locations (for example, on Lasithi Plateau) will remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday to shield young children from the high temperatures.
- Popular tourist destinations, including the Acropolis and other archaeological sites, might see reduced visitor numbers or revised visiting hours to prevent heat-related issues among tourists.
Precautionary Measures for the General Public:
The high temperatures pose a risk to both visitors and locals. Young children, the elderly, and anyone with health vulnerabilities are particularly at risk. The Greek Red Cross has provided several recommendations:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Sun Protection: Use umbrellas, wear appropriate attire, and limit sun exposure.
- Check on Others: Stay connected with friends and family to ensure everyone, especially the elderly, is doing well.
- Diet: Eat lightly to avoid heat exhaustion.
The Greek economy, heavily reliant on tourism, must balance visitor safety with economic activity. Tourist arrivals and holidaymakers might adjust their plans due to the weather, which could influence the country’s tourism sector. Despite the challenges, these measures aim to ensure the well-being of everyone in Greece during the heatwave.
Longest heatwave in the summer of 2023
Last year, Greece experienced an unprecedented heatwave that set new records. A sweltering 46.4 degrees Celsius was registered at Gytheio in the Peloponnese region, the highest since records began in 2006. Kranidi, also in Peloponnese, saw the second highest temperature at 45.9 degrees Celsius. This heatwave, stretching across many days, significantly impacted both the mainland and islands. With high temperatures and strong winds, the risk of wildfires increased, leading to evacuations and extensive efforts by firefighters to control forest fires.
Heatwaves Expected after the Warmest Winter in Greece
Greece recently experienced its warmest winter on record. Data analysed by meteo.gr shows that from December 2023 to February 2024, temperatures were higher than usual. This winter even surpassed the previous record set in 2015 to 2016. The average maximum temperature rose by 1.8°C since 1960, indicating a significant shift in weather patterns.
Meteorologists from the National Observatory of Athens forecast that the trend of warm weather will continue into the summer months. As a result, Greece is now bracing for a series of heatwaves, which could affect the region’s climate and daily life.
Summer 2024 Predicted to Be the Hottest Since 1993
Greece is preparing for an extremely hot summer season in 2024. Scientists have reported that this year could see some of the highest temperatures recorded since 1993. This follows a pattern of increasingly hot summers, with April 2024 being the eleventh consecutive month with record-breaking heat across Europe.
Temperature Predictions and Records
- The heatwave in June has already set an early record, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels for this time of year.
- Last year, Gytheio, a town in the Peloponnese region, recorded a stunning 46.4°C, the highest ever in Greece since 2006.
Impact on Greece
The rising temperatures are not just a seasonal inconvenience but have serious implications. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service projects that temperatures will continue to climb, reaching up to 36°C in certain areas between Sunday and Wednesday. Already, the nation is experiencing decreased rainfall, contributing to severe drought conditions. As rainfall has halved in recent years, water reserves are shrinking, leading to an increased risk of drought.
Climate Trends in Northern Regions
In Northern Greece, the average winter temperature has increased by 1.8°C from 1960 to 2024. This consistent rise indicates a long-term warming trend that exacerbates summer heatwaves, placing intense pressure on local ecosystems and communities.
Effects on Europe
Europe as a whole, the fastest-warming continent in the world, is bracing for another scorching summer. Previous years have seen significant heat-related fatalities, such as the 22,000 deaths in Spain over the last eight years due to extreme heat.
Mitigation and Response
Communities and authorities are being urged to take preventive measures. Measures include creating cooling centres, ensuring adequate water supplies, and raising public awareness about heat-related risks. Decisive actions are necessary to protect vulnerable populations and manage the looming water scarcity.
Highest Temperatures on Crete
Crete, known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites, also experiences extreme weather conditions. The island often records very high temperatures, especially during heatwaves. Yesterday (June 11, 2024), areas in Chania experienced temperatures soaring up to 39.4 degrees Celsius. High temperatures like these are not uncommon during summer months.
Here is a table of the highest recorded temperatures in recent years:
Location |
Temperature (°C) |
Date |
|---|---|---|
39.4 |
11 June 2024 |
|
Ierapetra |
38.2 |
23 June 2023 |
37.8 |
15 July 2022 |
|
37.5 |
5 August 2021 |
These high temperatures increase the risk of wildfires, a significant concern for the authorities warning of high wildfire risk. As the mercury climbs, it is important to remain hydrated and protected from the sun.
Aside from heatwaves, the warm climate contributes to pleasant weather for tourists throughout the majority of the year, making Crete a popular destination. The heatwaves, however, emphasise the need for caution and proper planning when visiting during peak heat periods.
Areas with a very high fire risk on Crete
June has brought record-breaking temperatures to Crete, making fire risk extremely high. This island, known for its beauty, is now on alert due to the soaring temperatures and dry conditions. Certain areas are particularly vulnerable to fires, and authorities have issued warnings to residents and tourists alike.
Notable areas with a very high fire risk on Crete include:
- Heraklion: Known for its historical landmarks, Heraklion is currently facing an elevated fire threat due to the prolonged heatwave.
- Chania: This area, with its picturesque landscapes, is also on high alert as the dry conditions make it prone to wildfires.
- Rethymno: Similar to other regions, Rethymno’s dry atmosphere increases the likelihood of fires taking hold.
- Lassithi: This less populated area is not exempt from the risk, with potential wildfires threatening its natural habitats.
Measures to Mitigate Fire Risks:
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Authorities are continually educating the public about fire safety measures.
- Evacuation Plans: Clear evacuation routes and procedures have been established for high-risk areas.
- Fire Response Teams: Enhanced firefighting units are on standby to tackle any outbreaks quickly.
Impact on Daily Life:
- Travel Restrictions: Movement in forested and high-risk areas is restricted to prevent accidental ignitions.
- Event Cancellations: Outdoor activities, especially those involving open flames, are postponed.
- Increased Surveillance: Drones and patrols are used to monitor vulnerable areas continuously.
The heatwave and fire risks are challenging for Crete, affecting both residents and visitors. Priorities include safety measures and adherence to guidelines to minimise fire impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the peak of the heatwave season usually occur in Greece?
The peak of the heatwave season in Greece is typically observed during the summer months, particularly from late June to August. During these months, temperatures often soar and can reach extreme highs.
What precautions should tourists take during high temperatures in Greece?
Tourists visiting Greece during heatwaves should take several precautions:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Wear Light Clothing: Opt for light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes.
- Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen with high SPF, wear hats, and use sunglasses.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Seek Shade: Spend time in shaded areas or air-conditioned places.
How have historical heatwaves impacted Greek tourism?
Heatwaves in Greece have had various impacts on tourism. Some visitors find the high temperatures challenging, which can lead to reduced outdoor activities or shortened visits. However, others are attracted to the warmer weather and the peak summer season remains popular for travellers despite the heat.
How have the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Greece changed over recent years?
In recent years, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Greece have seen a noticeable increase. Warmer global temperatures and changing climate patterns have resulted in more frequent and severe heatwaves.
What are the forecasts for future trends in Greek heatwaves?
Predictions suggest that Greek heatwaves will likely become more frequent and intense in the coming years. Climate models indicate a trend towards hotter summers, which may affect various aspects of life and tourism in the region.
How does Greek infrastructure handle extreme heat conditions?
Greek infrastructure is continually adapting to cope with extreme heat. Cities have implemented measures such as creating green spaces, increasing the availability of air-conditioned public areas, and improving early-warning systems for heatwaves. These efforts aim to mitigate the effects of extreme temperatures on residents and tourists alike.
