Heatwave to peak over the weekend as temperatures near 40C

Temperatures are expected to rise gradually across Greece over the coming days, with the current heatwave forecast to peak over the weekend as highs approach or locally exceed 40C in parts of the mainland.

According to ERT meteorologist Olga Papavgouli, Greece remains on the eastern edge of a strong subtropical high-pressure system affecting western and central Mediterranean countries. As a result, the country has experienced locally high temperatures in recent days, although widespread extreme heat has so far been avoided.

Sunday expected to be the hottest day

The warmest conditions are expected on Sunday, with temperatures of up to 40C likely in urban areas and inland regions of central, western and southern Greece.

Current forecasts indicate that the heatwave will be short-lived, with cooler air masses expected to move into northern Greece from Monday, bringing a gradual drop in temperatures. Hot conditions may persist in central and southern parts of the country until Tuesday, while increasing atmospheric instability could trigger localized showers and thunderstorms.

Forecast for the coming days

Sunny weather will prevail on Wednesday, although isolated showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop over northern mountainous areas during the afternoon. Temperatures will reach 38C to 39C in the warmest inland regions, while strong northerly winds of up to force 7 will continue over parts of the Aegean Sea.

Similar temperatures are forecast for Thursday, with isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms expected across northern Greece.

On Friday, unsettled weather will remain confined to northern mountains, while strong northerly winds of up to force 7 in the Aegean are expected to increase the risk of wildfires, particularly in eastern mainland areas. Inland western regions are forecast to record highs of around 38C.

Temperatures will rise further on Saturday, with central Greece, Thessaly and the plains of Macedonia expected to reach 38C to 39C, while the first local readings of 40C are possible. The Aegean islands are expected to remain relatively cooler as persistent northerly winds limit the rise in temperatures.