Α persistent heatwave will keep Greece in its grip for at least 48 more hours with temperatures expected to climb as high as 44° degrees Celsius in some parts of the country.
The extreme heat, driven by hot air masses from the Central Mediterranean, will be intensified by local wind conditions that trap heat in low-lying inland areas.
According to meteorologists, the heatwave—already classified as one of the strongest in the past 15 years—is placing serious pressure on infrastructure and public safety systems, especially with elevated fire risks in several regions and widespread health concerns.
Scorching Temperatures of 44°C in the shade
Greece’s National Meteorological Service (EMY) upgraded again on Friday morning, July 25, its warning of Dangerous Weather Phenomena.
Temperature will remain at very high levels today, Friday (25-07-25) and tomorrow, Saturday, July 25-26. On Sunday, the heat wave is forecast to end in western Greece, while significant temperature drop is expected across most regions starting in the eastern part of the country late on Monday, July 28.
Forecast July 25
Western Greece: Up to 44°C
Athens: 41–42°C
Thessaloniki: Temperatures reaching 38–39°C
Eastern Aegean Islands & Dodecanese: 38–40°C
Ionian Islands & southern Crete: 39–41°C
from Friday noon and on Saturday (26-07-25), in the east and mainly in the Aegean Sea, strengthened northerly winds of intensity 6 to 7 Beaufort will prevail.
2. On Saturday, July 26, maximum temperatures will reach:
a) in the mainland 40 to 41 and locally 42 and in the west 43 to 44 degrees Celsius. In Athens, 40 to 41 degrees and in Thessaloniki, 38 to 39 degrees.
3. On Sunday, July 27, maximum temperatures will reach:
a) in the western mainland, 38 and in the eastern mainland, 40 to 41 degrees Celsius. In Athens, 39 to 40 and in Thessaloniki, 38 to 39 degrees. More details for Saturday and Sunday check with KTG HERE.
Northern Winds offer relief, raise Fire Risk
While moderate northern winds (meltemi) are expected over the Aegean Sea from Friday noon, providing some cooling in eastern and island areas such as the Cyclades and Evia, they are also increasing the risk of wildfires.
Fire risk is classified as very high (Category 4) for many regions, including Attica, Western Greece, parts of the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, and islands in the North and South Aegean. 
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid outdoor activities that could trigger fires.
Emergency Workplace Measures Enforced
To mitigate heat stress, the government has implemented emergency labor measures for Friday. Between 12:00 and 17:00, outdoor manual labour—including construction, delivery services using two-wheeled vehicles, and shipyard work—must be suspended in all but mountainous regions. This includes gig economy workers operating through digital platforms.
Fines of €2,000 per employee will be imposed on businesses that fail to comply.
Critical infrastructure sectors such as health, transport, and utilities are exempt but must follow strict safety protocols.
