The heatwave gripping Greece since Monday is now expected to last more than a week, with the country experiencing temperatures nearing 46°C (114.8°F) on July 25.
The National Observatory in Athens reported the highest temperature was recorded in the Messinia region, where it hit 45.8°C. In the capital Athens, some areas recorded up to 42°C.
Authorities have once again adjusted visiting hours at the Acropolis, Greece’s premier archaeological site, to protect both tourists and staff. The monument will remain closed from midday to 5:00 PM, during the hottest part of the day.
The Greek meteorological service revised its forecast, now predicting temperatures will begin to drop after July 28. Initially, a weekend cooldown was expected. The agency also warned of northern winds on Friday, increasing the wildfire risk.
One fire earlier this week destroyed over 1,130 hectares of forest near the village of Feneos. On Friday, another wildfire near Kilkis, in northern Greece, forced the evacuation of a university, homes, and businesses.
Saturday’s forecast predicts temperatures could rise again to 44°C.
Meanwhile, neighboring Albania is battling ten active wildfires, including one in Delvinë, near the Greek border. A blaze near Kakavijë, close to the border crossing, was brought under control on Thursday.
In Kosovo, the heatwave is also being felt, with Friday’s high in Klina reaching 42.5°C, the hottest recorded in the country so far.
