Greece is grappling with a severe heatwave, leading to the closure of the iconic Acropolis and the imposition of work breaks for outdoor laborers. Temperatures have soared, reaching up to 43 degrees Celsius (109.4 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas, prompting concerns for public safety and the environment.
Acropolis Closed Amid Soaring Temperatures
The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Greece’s most visited attractions, has been temporarily closed during the hottest hours of the day. This measure is primarily to protect both workers and the millions of tourists who visit annually. The ancient site offers minimal shade, making prolonged exposure to extreme heat dangerous.
- The Acropolis was shut from midday until 5:00 p.m. (1400 GMT).
- Temperatures in Athens were expected to reach 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Similar shutdowns have occurred in recent years due to extreme weather conditions.
Work Breaks Mandated for Outdoor Laborers
In response to the intense heat, the Greek Labor Ministry has mandated work breaks for outdoor employees across various sectors. This includes construction workers, food delivery riders, couriers, and shipyard workers. They are required to pause work between midday and 5:00 p.m. to prevent heat stress and ensure their safety.
Wildfires and Environmental Concerns
The heatwave has also exacerbated the risk of wildfires, with several blazes already reported across Greece. Evacuations have been necessary in areas near Athens and on the island of Thasos. The dry conditions and high temperatures create a volatile environment, increasing the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly.
- Fires have forced evacuations near Athens and on Thasos island.
- Some parts of Thasos remain without power due to the fires.
- Authorities are on high alert for wildfires, especially with expected gale-force winds.
Broader Impact and Future Outlook
This heatwave is Greece’s second major heatwave of the season, following a severe period in early July. While summer heat is typical in Greece, experts attribute the increasing intensity and frequency of these events to climate change. The Greek meteorological service anticipates the current heatwave to persist, with a brief respite before another prolonged period of high temperatures is forecast to begin on July 13.
- 2024 was the warmest year on record globally.
- Greece experienced its warmest winter and summer on record last year, including a 16-day heatwave in July.
- Cooler temperatures are expected briefly until Saturday, July 12, before another prolonged heatwave begins.
Sources
- Greece Wildfire Forces Evacuations as Heat Wave Returns to Europe, Bloomberg.com.
- Greece temporarily shuts Acropolis due to heat wave – DW – 07/08/2025, DW.
- Greece shuts Acropolis for part of day as heat soars, bans outdoor work, Reuters.
- Cooler Temperatures Briefly Before Prolonged Heatwave Arrives in Greece, tovima.com.
- Video Greece continues to struggle with soaring heat, ABC News – Breaking News, Latest News and Videos.
