Greece has activated its highest wildfire alert level as extreme weather conditions create a heightened risk of fires across Attica and four other regions.
The Attica region has been placed under Category 5 fire danger, known as the Red Code or “State of Alarm,” according to the daily wildfire risk forecast issued by Greece’s Civil Protection authorities.
As part of the emergency measures, a full ban on access to Lycabettus Hill in central Athens has been in effect since midnight. Both entrances and exits to the popular urban landmark have been closed, with municipal police monitoring the area to prevent pedestrians and vehicles from entering.
Authorities on high alert as temperatures soar
The Municipality of Athens has placed all of its services on maximum alert and introduced targeted protection measures for vulnerable groups, outdoor workers facing extreme conditions and stray animals in the city.
According to the Risk Assessment Committee, very high temperatures, stronger winds and extremely low humidity levels are creating conditions that could allow wildfires to start and spread rapidly.
All relevant state agencies have been placed on increased operational readiness to respond to possible emergencies.
Five regions under highest wildfire warning
For Wednesday, July 22, the highest wildfire risk category applies to:
- Attica
- Boeotia
- Fthiotida
- Argolida
- Corinthia
Authorities have warned that the combination of heat, wind and dry conditions significantly increases the likelihood of dangerous fires.
Outdoor work suspended during peak heat hours
A mandatory suspension of outdoor work has also been introduced on Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. due to the expected extreme temperatures.
The measure applies to Attica, eastern Central Greece, Thessaly and eastern Peloponnese, and covers outdoor manual work in construction sites, technical projects, ship repair zones and the delivery or transport of goods using motorcycles, scooters and similar vehicles.
The suspension applies to all workers regardless of their employment status, including those working through digital platforms.
Delivery services and exemptions
Delivery businesses are also covered by the measure, including both physical stores and digital platforms. However, orders may still be collected from stores and delivered using air-conditioned vehicles, excluding motorcycles and mopeds.
The restrictions do not apply to critical services linked to essential infrastructure, including healthcare, water supply, electricity, aviation, airport handling, and maritime, road and rail transport.
These activities may continue operating as long as the required safety measures are implemented and working hours are properly organized.
Fines for violations
Businesses that fail to comply with the mandatory work suspension may face a fine of €2,000 for each employee affected.
Employers must also provide the option of remote work for employees belonging to high-risk groups whenever the nature of their duties allows it.
To help businesses manage changes in working hours during the emergency measures, employers in affected areas will not be required to pre-register every change in working schedules in Greece’s ERGANI labor information system.
