A powerful heatwave sweeping across Greece has caused extreme surface temperatures, with thermal cameras recording asphalt temperatures above 60°C and some urban surfaces exceeding 75°C.

Thermal imaging in the Attica region, which includes Athens, captured the intensity of the heatwave, showing the impact of prolonged high temperatures on roads, buildings and vehicles.

Shortly after 1 p.m. on Monday, a thermal camera monitoring the Kifisos area recorded asphalt temperatures above 60°C, highlighting the difficult conditions affecting road surfaces.

Even higher temperatures were recorded in the area of Alsos Veikou, where rooftops and parked vehicles appeared almost white in thermal images. The color patterns indicated that these surfaces had reached temperatures above 75°C.

Highest temperatures recorded across Greece

Meteorological measurements confirmed the severity of the heatwave across the country.

According to the network of automatic weather stations operated by the National Observatory of Athens (meteo.gr), the highest temperatures were recorded in Riza in Corinthia, Makrakomi in Phthiotis, and Olenia in Ilia, where temperatures reached 41.1°C.

Temperatures above 40°C were recorded at 24 weather stations, while 159 stations registered maximum temperatures exceeding 37°C, illustrating the wide extent of the extreme heat.

Experts warn of increased heat stress

Meteorologists have warned that prolonged high temperatures can significantly increase heat stress, particularly in major urban areas.

In cities, heat stored by concrete buildings and asphalt surfaces intensifies the so-called urban heat island effect, making conditions feel even more oppressive.