Greece braces for intense heatwave amid heightened fire risk
10 August 2024 17:59
The Greek government is warning about an approaching heatwave. It is expected to worsen an already difficult fire situation, and as much as half of the country will be in a very high-risk zone.
The minister warned that dangerous weather conditions will prevail in Greece from Sunday to 15 August, which could lead to forest fires.
Scorching heat and hurricane-force winds
- We expect a combination of very strong winds, ranging from 55 to 63 km/h, with gusts up to 74 km/h, along with drought. As a result, half of Greece will be in the "red zone" (...) - said Kikilias, as quoted by the AMNA agency.
I have requested the implementation of emergency measures involving the army, police, volunteers, firefighters, and local authorities. I appeal to all citizens to be vigilant and as responsible as possible because we have a very difficult week ahead of us, he added.
On 15 August, Greece celebrates the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, and many residents take this time off to relax. Due to mass travel, the police have announced heightened safety measures on the roads.
