Greek authorities have ordered mandatory work stoppages in areas where temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius. This measure comes as parts of Greece have been gripped by an extreme heatwave since Sunday, forecast to last until Thursday.
Restrictions and Recommendations
The Ministry of Labor has prohibited outdoor physical labor and food delivery services from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This order primarily applies to Greece’s central regions and several islands. Employers have also been urged to offer remote work options.
No emergency measures were taken in Athens, as the current heatwave in the capital isn’t considered unusual. Meteorologists predict the highest temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a slight drop to around 35 degrees expected by the end of the week.
The most extreme temperatures are anticipated in the low-lying areas of central Greece. On islands and along the coast, temperatures are expected to be three to five degrees lower than in mainland and urban centers.
Key recommendations for citizens include:
- Avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest midday hours.
- Drinking plenty of water.
- Avoiding alcohol.
- Eating light meals.
- Skipping outdoor sports.
To assist vulnerable individuals, such as the homeless or those without air conditioning, many cities and municipalities have opened air-conditioned public spaces for shelter. High temperatures are also prevailing in other parts of Europe, including the Balkan region.
