In a recent weather update from Greece, the country is going to undergo a three-day heatwave starting today. According to Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection of Greece, during this time, the temperatures will touch or go above 40 degrees Celsius. The minister has cautioned about the heightened risk of wildfires as well.
Kikilias has also informed reporters of the peak heat expected on Wednesday and Thursday, prompting Greece to elevate its fire risk warning to a "very high" level of four out of five.
Meteorologists had also predicted temperatures reaching 43 degrees Celsius before subsiding over the weekend. Greece, experiencing its warmest winter on record followed by unseasonably high temperatures in April, has already witnessed forest fires starting as early as March, even at altitudes exceeding 1000 m.
This month alone, firefighters have been tirelessly fighting several daily forest blazes. He also stressed the fire season's challenges, prompting Greece to impose harsher penalties for both accidental and deliberate arsonists, with perpetrators facing up to 20 years in prison and a fine of €200,000 since May 1st.
According to the National Observatory of Athens, wildfires in 2023 ravaged nearly 175,000 hectares of forest and farmland in Greece following an unprecedented two-week heatwave. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change attributes the prolonged fire seasons and increased land destruction to rising temperatures resulting from human-induced fossil fuel emissions.
A look at some of the must visit places in Greece:
Greece is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are five beautiful places to visit in Greece:
Santorini: Known for its iconic whitewashed buildings, breathtaking sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, Santorini is a must-visit destination in Greece. Explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, perched on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea..
Athens: As the capital city of Greece, Athens is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modernity. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, one of the most famous ancient monuments in the world.
Meteora: Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking rock formations and monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. Explore the monasteries, which date back to the 14th century, and marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Crete: As the largest island in Greece, Crete offers a diverse range of landscapes, from pristine beaches to rugged mountains and ancient ruins. Visit the Palace of Knossos, the legendary Minoan archaeological site, and explore charming villages like Chania and Rethymno, with their Venetian-era architecture and picturesque harbors.