Heatwave keeps fire risk very high across Greece
A category-4 wildfire threat, the second-highest level on the country's five-tier scale, has been issued for Attica, Evia, Crete, the North Aegean and parts of the South Aegean.
The warning covers the North Aegean regional units of Chios, Samos and Ikaria, as well as the Cycladic Islands, Kalymnos, Kos and Karpathos in the South Aegean.
Authorities step up patrols
The General Secretariat of Civil Protection has instructed state, regional and municipal authorities to remain on high alert.
The Fire Brigade is operating at full readiness, with aerial and ground patrols being increased in coordination with police and military forces.
Preventive restrictions on vehicle and pedestrian access to national parks, forests and other fire-prone areas are also being implemented in areas under heightened risk.
Heatwave expected to ease Saturday
The week-long heatwave will continue Thursday, with temperatures forecast to remain between 36 and 39 degrees Celsius across most of the country.
Weather conditions are expected to begin improving Saturday, when temperatures are forecast to fall to around 34 degrees.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors in high-risk areas to follow fire prevention measures and avoid activities that could trigger fires.
Further guidance on wildfire prevention and self-protection is available from the General Secretariat of Civil Protection at https:https://civilprotection.gov.gr/
Source-Photo:AMNA
