Forest fire threat looms in Greece, immense heat in Turkey
Expect a short heatwave this week in Greece and Turkey, with temperatures skyrocketing to a scorching 45 degrees in certain spots. The Greek Red Cross has doled out advice, while ministries have sent out cautionary alerts. Meteorologists from both nations find these temperatures uncharacteristically high for the season.
Per the Greek Weather Service, temperatures in central Greece, the Peloponnese, the Cyclades, and Crete will reach above 40°C starting Tuesday, with some regions topping at 45°C.
The Greek Red Cross encourages individuals to dodge sunshine, draw their window shades, consume sufficient water, and refrain from overeating. For reassurance of the well-being of seniors, it's wise to maintain communication with friends and family. Alcoholic beverages and outdoor activities should be avoided. Children and animals shouldn't be left in vehicles during daylight, and charitable doses of water to strays are recommended.
The Greek Fire Department is on high alert as well. Following a parched winter and abnormally hot readings since early June, the peril for forest blazes is extremely high in central Greece, the agency confirmed via Twitter.
Similarly, Turkey's Meteorological Service cautions about a heatwave in western Turkey on Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures peaking around 45°C (112°F). This is about 12 degrees higher than customary for this period. Citizens are advised to stay inside between 11:00 and 16:00, particularly the elderly, kiddos, and chronically infirm.
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The mini heat wave predicted in Greece and Turkey could potentially lead to a heightened danger of forest fires, given the dry conditions and high temperatures. Turkey, specifically western regions, is expected to experience temperatures reaching 45 degrees during this heatwave, which is significantly above the usual for this period.