Nairobi: Greece is preparing for the peak of an intense heatwave expected to hit early this week, with temperatures predicted to soar up to 41C (105.8F) in certain regions. Firefighters have successfully contained a wildfire on Salamis Island near Athens as of Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the heatwave, which commenced on Saturday, is anticipated to intensify through Monday and Tuesday. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service forecasts that mainland Greece and Crete will experience the highest temperatures. Notably, the town of Konitsa recorded the first temperature above 40C (104F) this year, reaching 40.4C on Saturday, as reported by the National Observatory of Athens.
Temperatures also climbed in other parts of the country, with Sparta experiencing 39.3C (102.7F) and Petrokefali on Crete and Farsala in central Greece both reaching 38.9C (102F), according to ERT news. The hottest conditions are expected on Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures projected to reach 40-41C (104-105.8F) on the mainland and Crete. A cooling trend is anticipated to begin in northern Greece by Wednesday, with a more significant nationwide temperature drop expected on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Fire Department reported that a wildfire in the Selinia area of Salamis, an island west of Athens, has been contained. A small flare-up occurred in the southern part of the fire zone, but immediate aerial firefighting efforts were deployed, mitigating any immediate threat.
The wildfire had spread through a forested area near homes, complicating firefighting efforts due to the rugged terrain. Dense smoke had enveloped parts of the area, prompting crews to remain vigilant against the risk of reignition. Salamis Mayor Giorgos Panagopoulos confirmed that residents and holidaymakers from the Panorama A and Panorama B settlements were evacuated as a precaution, ensuring all evacuations were completed safely without injuries.
In a separate incident, another wildfire ignited in a forested area near Rodolivoi in the northern Serres region. Twenty firefighters, backed by eight fire engines and municipal water tankers, were deployed to contain the blaze. Authorities indicated that the fire was burning away from homes and infrastructure, and an arson investigation team was dispatched to determine its cause.