Acropolis temporarily shut down due to excessive heat in Greece.

Acropolis temporarily shut down due to excessive heat in Greece.

In the sweltering heat of July 2025, Europe is grappling with a relentless heatwave and a surge of wildfires. From Greece's popular tourist islands to the heart of France, the continent is experiencing a climate change-induced crisis.

Greek authorities have enforced a midday work ban from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm for outdoor jobs, including construction and food delivery, across several regions, including popular tourist islands. The extreme temperatures have forced the temporary closure of iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis in Athens, which shut down on 8 July when soaring temperatures reached 42°C.

The heatwave is expected to persist through 9 July, potentially pushing temperatures to 41°C. neighbouring countries like Serbia and Croatia are also enduring temperatures up to 40°C and are expected to persist for days. Serbian meteorologists have issued warnings about increased wildfire risks, and France has reported 88% of its administrative regions under code orange alerts due to extreme heat.

Wildfires are a frequent occurrence in Greece during the summer, a consequence of the country grappling with climate change. In June 2025, the island of Chios declared a state of emergency due to severe wildfires. The heatwave has also prompted wildfires in France, forcing authorities to urge people to stay indoors during peak heat.

In response to these extreme events, both Greek and European authorities are taking various long-term actions to combat climate change. While specific Greek actions are not detailed, Greece is part of the broader European Union strategies. Generally, EU member states, including Greece, are expected to implement national energy and climate plans aligned with EU targets.

The European Union is actively engaged in combating climate change through several initiatives. The EU aims to reach climate neutrality by 2050, with a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The EU has established a comprehensive legislative framework, including the "Fit for 55" package, to ensure member states are aligned with EU climate goals.

The EU emphasizes the need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as heatwaves and wildfires. This involves implementing measures like early warning systems, disaster risk reduction, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The European Parliament plays a crucial role in shaping EU climate policies, with ongoing negotiations on the new climate target.

The EU also provides financial support to member states to implement climate actions, including funding for renewable energy projects and climate adaptation measures. The Atomium in Brussels has reduced operating hours to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, reflecting the EU's commitment to prioritizing safety during extreme weather events.

As Europe faces the brunt of climate change, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action. The ongoing heatwave and wildfires underscore the importance of long-term strategies to combat climate change and adapt to its impacts. The EU's comprehensive approach involves legislative, economic, and social measures to address climate change, with member states like Greece contributing through their national plans and participation in EU initiatives.

1. In an attempt to mitigate the effects of climate change, Greek authorities have imposed a midday work ban for outdoor jobs on popular tourist islands.
2. Tourists visiting destination islands in Greece should be aware that iconic landmarks, such as the Acropolis in Athens, might temporarily close due to extreme heat.
3. The heatwave in Europe has prompted wildfires on remote islands and mainland regions, with serious consequences for both tourists and the environment.
4. To combat climate change, the European Union has established ambitious goals, including reaching climate neutrality by 2050 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.
5. As part of the European Union's efforts to adapt to climate change, member states are expected to implement national energy and climate plans aligned with EU targets, like Greece.
6. In response to the current heatwave, the Atomium in Brussels has reduced operating hours to ensure safety, demonstrating the EU's commitment to preserving the environment and protecting its citizens during extreme weather events.

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