Greece is set to endure one of the most intense days of its current heatwave on Friday, July 25, with temperatures expected to climb as high as 44°C in some parts of the country. The extreme heat, driven by hot air masses from the Central Mediterranean, will be intensified by local wind conditions that trap heat in low-lying inland areas.

According to leading meteorologists, the heatwave—already classified as one of the strongest in the past 15 years—is placing serious pressure on infrastructure and public safety systems, especially with elevated fire risks in several regions and widespread health concerns.

Scorching Temperatures Across the Country

The Greek National Meteorological Service (EMY) has upgraded its warning to an Emergency Bulletin of Dangerous Weather Phenomena. Friday will be particularly punishing across mainland Greece and many island regions:

  • Western Greece: Up to 44°C expected

  • Athens: Forecast highs of 41–42°C

  • Thessaloniki: Temperatures reaching 38–39°C

  • Eastern Aegean Islands & Dodecanese: 38–40°C

  • Ionian Islands & southern Crete: 39–41°C

The oppressive heat will continue into Saturday with only slight easing from Sunday in northwestern areas. A more significant drop in temperatures is expected across most regions starting Monday, July 28.

Minimum nighttime temperatures will remain high—between 28–29°C, especially in cities—offering little relief.

Winds Offer Mixed Relief, Raise Fire Risk

While moderate northern winds (meltemi) are expected over the Aegean from Friday afternoon, providing some cooling in eastern and island areas such as the Cyclades and Euboea, they are also increasing the risk of wildfires.

Fire risk is classified as very high (Category 4) for many regions, including Attica, Western Greece, parts of the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, and islands in the North and South Aegean. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid outdoor activities that could trigger fires.

Why the Heat Persists

Meteorologist Theodoros Kolydas explains that the heatwave’s persistence is due to warm upper air masses and an atypical northeasterly airflow. This wind pattern, unlike the classic July-August meltemi, is weaker and shorter-lived, originating from thermal low-pressure systems over the Eastern Mediterranean. As a result, inland areas remain exposed to stifling heat, even while coastal zones may feel slightly cooler.

Emergency Workplace Measures Enforced

To mitigate heat stress, the government has implemented emergency labour measures for Friday. Between 12:00 and 17:00, outdoor manual labour—including construction, delivery services using two-wheeled vehicles, and shipyard work—must be suspended in all but mountainous regions. This includes gig economy workers operating through digital platforms.

Fines of €2,000 per employee will be imposed on businesses that fail to comply.

Additionally, employers are advised to offer remote work options where feasible for high-risk employees and to allow flexible working hours without advance notification in the national employment registry system (ERGANI).

Critical infrastructure sectors such as health, transport, and utilities are exempt but must follow strict safety protocols.

Forecast Summary for Key Regions – Friday, July 25

  • Athens: Clear skies, light winds, high of 41–42°C
  • Thessaloniki: Mostly sunny, highs of 38–39°C
  • Mainland Greece (Thessaly, Macedonia, Peloponnese): 40–44°C, especially in the west
  • Cyclades & Crete: Breezy with temperatures up to 33°C in most areas, hotter in southern Crete
  • Eastern Aegean & Dodecanese: Windy, highs of 36–40°C
  • Ionian Islands: Sunny and hot, up to 41°C