Civil Protection on alert: Threat evaluation committee convenes ahead of heatwave

With Greece bracing for a strong heatwave from Sunday through Wednesday, the Threat Evaluation Committee convened on Sunday morning under the direction of Civil Protection Secretary General Nikos Papaefstathiou to coordinate national readiness and response.

The meeting brought together key scientists and emergency officials to assess forecasts and prepare for expected high temperatures across the country, particularly in central and northern regions.

According to meteorological experts, this heatwave is of medium intensity, but with potentially dangerous temperatures that may reach 42°C in parts of the mainland by Wednesday.

Regional Forecast Highlights:

Monday: Macedonia, Thrace, Thessaly: Up to 40°C

Attica: Up to 38°C

Tuesday: Thessaly, Central Greece (East), Peloponnese (East): Up to 41°C

Attica: Up to 40°C

Wednesday: Thessaly, Central Greece (East), Peloponnese (East): 40–42°C

Attica: 39–41°C

Public Protection Measures Activated

Following the committee’s meeting, authorities have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities during peak hours, stay hydrated, and check on elderly relatives or neighbors. Municipalities have been instructed to open air-conditioned public facilities for vulnerable groups and the homeless.

Hospitals and emergency services remain on alert, while rural and forest services have been placed on standby due to the elevated risk of wildfires.

“This is not just about heat – it’s about public health and national coordination,” said Papaefstathiou. “The state apparatus is mobilized to protect the population, particularly the most vulnerable.”