- Climate change made Mediterranean heat waves more likely
The likelihood of a heatwave like the one currently affecting the Mediterranean region has significantly increased due to the climate crisis, according to an analysis by the U.S.-based non-profit organization Climate Central. The current temperatures, particularly in Greece, are up to five times more likely, the organization said.
14 consecutive days over 40°C
The organization reported that Greece experienced the warmest July on record, with 14 consecutive days over 40°C. It is also expected to be several degrees warmer than normal for several days in mid-August, similar to Italy, France, and Albania. In Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Hungary, and Austria, temperatures are expected to be six to ten degrees above normal.
On Wednesday, the German Weather Service reported that temperatures were above 30°C throughout almost the entire Mediterranean region. It is expected to remain hot in the coming days, with temperatures up to 38°C in Athens and high forest fire danger. A large fire has been raging in Greece for several days.
Climate change increases risk of fires
"We know that weather conditions with high forest fire danger are directly linked to climate change," explained Andrew Pershing, lead author of the analysis. "Climate change leads to long periods of drought and heat, which increases the risk of fires."
"we must keep coal, oil, and gas in the ground," Pershing emphasized. "Otherwise, such summers with extreme temperatures in the Mediterranean will become the new norm, not just in Greece, but throughout the region."
The European Union has expressed concern over the ongoing heatwave in the Mediterranean, given its member states like Greece being greatly affected. The European Union has been advocating for stricter climate change policies, recognizing the increased risk of heatwaves and forest fires due to climate change.
