A European hotspot loved by Brits is set for temperatures of more than 40C, according to weather maps that have turned volcanic red. WXCharts predicts that Greece will be scorching on July 6, with the mercury reaching 41C in the middle of the country. But these sorts of temperatures could be seen sooner, as southern European countries brace for a predicted heatwave this weekend, with temperatures expected to exceed 40C. Health warnings have been issued for residents and visitors.
Greece’s National Meteorological Service (EMY) said today’s temperature are set to reach 39 to 41C on the mainland and 36 to 38C on the islands. On Saturday, the temperature will drop by two to three degrees. On Sunday, meanwhile, experts said it will not exceed 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Strong storms are thought to be in store from this afternoon in places in western and central Macedonia, and from the evening in eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
The EMY added: “A cessation of the strong phenomena is expected in the morning hours of Saturday.
“Winds from Saturday will gradually strengthen throughout the country and on Sunday will reach up to nine Beaufort in the areas of the Cyclades, Crete, Dodecanese and the islands of the Eastern Aegean and up to eight Beaufort in Evia, Attica and the eastern Peloponnese.”
At the time of writing, the Met Office says that, at 7pm today, Kefallinia will feel like 41C, with an actual temperature of 36C.
Later on, at 8pm, it will feel like 38C at 33C, and, at 9pm, 33C in 30C.
Saturday could see highs of 37C, experts forecast, which will feel like 43C.
The Met Office says of the capital Athens that those seeking hot sunshine should visit the city during the summer months, where temperatures often exceed 30°C and days regularly see 11 to 12 hours of unbroken sunshine.
This allows “plenty of time for sightseeing”.
Weather specialists add: “Those, still looking for some heat, but prefer it a little cooler should visit in spring or autumn, where temperatures are lower, but are still warm enough take in the sights.
“However, rain is more likely.”