According to the Greek Meteorological Service, the extreme heat that continued for 16 days in July was recorded as the longest heat wave in the country since 1980. According to experts, climate change stands out as a factor in the increase of such extreme weather conditions.
Cities Most Affected
The Greek cities most affected by this year’s heatwave include Alexandroupoli, Didymoteicho, Thassos, Drama, Nea Peramos, Kavala, Serres, Xanthi, Thessaloniki and Piraeus.
Measurements Taken
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security took various measures to protect employees during the days when the heat wave was effective. For example, the Acropolis, where the Parthenon Temple is located, was closed to visitors between 12:00 and 17:00 due to excessive heat. In addition, construction, courier services and product transportation in the open air were stopped. It was announced that employers would be fined 2,000 euros for each employee if they did not comply with these rules. White-collar workers and civil servants were given the opportunity to work remotely in temperatures above 40 degrees.
