Sweltering Summer in Greece: Staying Safe During the Heatwave
Intense Heatwave and Flames Ravaging Greece
Greetings, folks! Summer's here in Greece, but it's coming with a sizzle. The weather forecast predicts brutal heatwaves with thermometers soaring up to 42 degrees Celsius in the coming days. And it's already scorching – temperature as high as 36 degrees was recorded by Friday morning! The drought hasn't helpedmatters, either, as the fire risk is pretty high in many parts of the country.
A silver lining? The tourist islands of the southern Aegean and Crete are spared from the blistering heat. With the cool sea breeze, these islands experience temperatures up to 6 degrees cooler than the mainland, according to meteorologists.
Nevertheless, the heat hasn't deterred tourists! Long lines formed early outside the Acropolis, the architectural icon of Athens, even in the sizzling morning heat. One Aussie tourist beamed, "We have a hat, plenty of water, and we want to go up!"
But the merciless heat outdoors poses risks. In Athens and other cities, night temperatures refuse to fall below 30 degrees, which experts warn is killer for our health. Sweaty nights and disturbed sleep hinder the body's ability to recover, advises Greek media. Elderly and sick individuals are advised to stay in cool, shaded, and air-conditioned areas and avoid alcohol. Instead, stay hydrated, they say – drink lots of water!
Firefighters battled a fire that broke out on Thursday due to a faulty cable, destroying around 13 holiday homes about 60 kilometers southwest of Athens. With a potential increase in the wind, all fire service and volunteer forces are on high alert – a whopping 28,000 strong! These forces face a significant challenge, as local winds, combined with drought and heat, could easily transform even the smallest fire into a raging inferno.
So, tourists and locals alike, take heed! To beat the heat, don't forget to stay hydrated regularly, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, seek shade and cool areas, wear appropriate clothing, apply sunscreen, and stay updated with local weather warnings. Follow these guidelines to minimize risks of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration. Enjoy your summer safely, folks!
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256#:~:text=For%20most%20adults%2C%20the%20recommended,2%20liters%20(9%20cups)%20a%20day%20for%20women.[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/heatwave#prevention[3] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/how-to-stay-cool-in-hot-weather/[4] https://www.americanheart.org/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/prevention-and-wellness/how-do-extreme-heat-waves-affect-heart-health
Other cities across Greece are experiencing equally scorching temperatures, making it crucial for everyone to prioritize their hydration. Staying hydrated is essential, and for most adults, the recommended daily intake is around 2 liters (9 cups) for women and 3 liters (13 cups) for men.
Given the other risks associated with the weather, such as heat exhaustion and dehydration, searching for cooler areas and staying updated on local weather warnings is also a smart move for both tourists and locals in Greece during this heatwave.
