· 2 min read
illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Greece is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 44°C in some regions, prompting a 48-hour alert for extreme heat stress across much of the country
• The Athens National Observatory and meteo.gr have issued warnings for Thursday and Friday (24–25 July) as heat stress levels reach "very high" to "extreme" across the mainland, Thessaly, and the Aegean islands
🔭 The context: This prolonged heatwave began on 20 July and is the latest in a pattern of intensifying summer extremes in southern Europe
• Simultaneously, Greece’s wildfire risk has escalated significantly due to the combined effects of persistent high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong north/northeast winds expected through 26 July
• The FLAME pyrometeorological team has identified this period as the most critical for fire outbreaks so far this summer
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Extreme heat and wildfire risks are emblematic of broader climate volatility across the Mediterranean, which has become a hotspot for climate-induced disasters
• These conditions threaten public health, biodiversity, and infrastructure, while placing extraordinary pressure on emergency services
• Rising heat events also strain energy systems and accelerate water scarcity across the region
⏭️ What's next: Authorities are on high alert for wildfires, with emergency services mobilised to respond rapidly to potential outbreaks
• Citizens are advised to avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, stay hydrated, and monitor official guidance
• Meteorological services will reassess the situation over the weekend, particularly if high temperatures and strong winds persist into next week
💬 One quote: “The cumulative effect of the very hot and dry conditions… has led to a significant increase in the flammability of forest fuels, making it very easy for fires to start and spread rapidly.” – FLAME Team, National Observatory of Athens
📈 One stat: Forecasts predict temperatures reaching or exceeding 44°C in parts of Greece on Friday 25 July.
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