What's happened
Greece faces a second heatwave, with temperatures reaching 42°C. Authorities have ordered outdoor work stoppages from noon to 5pm in central regions and islands to protect workers and prevent wildfires. The Acropolis remains closed for safety. Similar extreme weather affects neighboring Balkan countries, with wildfires and storms causing damage.
What's behind the headline?
The current heatwave underscores Greece's vulnerability to climate change, with authorities implementing short-term measures like work bans and site closures to mitigate risks. These actions reflect a broader regional pattern of extreme weather, including wildfires and storms across the Balkans. The decision to restrict outdoor labor from noon to 5pm is a practical response, but it also signals the need for long-term adaptation strategies. The deployment of record firefighters indicates recognition of the escalating threat, yet the persistent wildfires and heatwaves suggest that climate change will continue to challenge Greece and neighboring countries. The timing of these measures, amid rising temperatures and wildfire risks, highlights the urgency of addressing climate resilience and sustainable development in the region.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Greece's Acropolis remains closed during the heatwave, with temperatures peaking at 42°C, and authorities have ordered outdoor work stoppages to protect workers and prevent wildfires. The article emphasizes the ongoing regional impact of extreme weather, including wildfires in Crete and Turkey, and the high fire danger across the Balkans. The Independent notes Greece's long-term climate adaptation efforts, including deploying record firefighters and implementing work bans, but highlights that no emergency measures have been taken in Athens itself. AP News confirms the work stoppage from midday to 5pm in central Greece and islands, with authorities advising remote work, and points out that the current heatwave is part of a broader pattern of European heat events. The coverage collectively illustrates Greece's immediate response to the heatwave and regional climate challenges, with a focus on wildfire risks and public safety.
How we got here
Greece has experienced increasing heatwaves over recent years, linked to climate change. Last year, the country saw a record 4.5 million visitors at the Acropolis, which has been periodically closed during heatwaves. The region is also prone to wildfires, exacerbated by dry conditions and high temperatures, with recent fires on Crete and in Turkey highlighting the growing threat of climate-related disasters.
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Common question
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How Is Greece Handling Its Heatwave and Wildfires?
Greece is currently experiencing a severe heatwave with temperatures soaring up to 42°C, leading to wildfires and safety concerns. Authorities have responded with measures like outdoor work bans and regional closures to protect residents and visitors. But how exactly is Greece managing this extreme weather, and what does it mean for the region? Below, we explore the key questions about Greece's response to the heatwave and its regional impact.
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Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, known also as Hellas, is a country located in Southeast Europe. Its population is approximately 10.7 million as of 2018; Athens, the nation's capital, is its largest city, followed by Thessaloniki.
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Athens, is the capital and largest city of Greece. Athens dominates the Attica region and is one of the world's oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years and its earliest human presence started somewhere between the 11th and 7th m