Greece is experiencing extreme heat with temperatures of up to 43C forecast for the summer. The government has advised outdoor labourers to cease work in the hottest parts of the day and it has closed the Acropolis for five hours daily on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Scorching heat of 42C is expected in Central Macedonia and 40C is expected in Athens. With concerns about fires breaking out, fire services are on high alert. Residents and tourists are urged to take precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding crowds.
Greece is not the only area to be hit by the heatwave with concerns across Europe. Tourists have been advised to stay safe and look for shade if holidaying in Greece.
The country’s Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection warned that temperatures will peak between Tuesday and Friday, with highs of 43C in some regions, reports The Independent.
Tourists have been spotted sheltering in air-conditioned restaurants and stores on Tuesday, while the labour ministry advised employees with underlying health issues to work remotely.
Greece, a country that attracts millions of tourists every year and is known for its hot, dry summers, has been increasingly affected by climate change.
The dangerous temperatures are set to last for six days, the country’s National Meteorological Service has said.
Fines will be issued to any companies not following working conditions rules. Any company allowing the carrying out of the prohibited work will be fined 2,000 euros per employee.
In a tragic incident on Sunday a British tourist was discovered dead on his sun lounger at a popular Greek beach after saying he felt ill.
The 74-year-old was found unconscious on Stalis Beach on the island of Crete by fellow resort-goers at around 12pm on Sunday.
Medics from the Hellenic National Centre of Emergency Care (EKAB) treated the man at the scene, though no cause of death has yet been released by Greek authorities.