Greece is in the middle of a heatwave with UK tourists warned to “stay safe” amid rising temperatures. Schools and tourist hotspots are “shutting” amid the blast of summer air, which has seen the mercury hit an astonishing 43C.
The high temperatures are being driven by southerly winds bringing hot air and dust from North Africa. The Acropolis, which welcomes four million visitors last year, closed from 9am to 2pm (GMT) on Wednesday due to life-threatening temperatures.
Red Cross medics were also seen handing out water bottles to tourists, while primary schools and nurseries across the southern parts of the country were closed until Friday. Refuse collectors have been halted for several hours, too.
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Seven air conditioned spaces opened to the public. Meteorologists have noted this is the earliest heatwave in recorded history. “In the 20th century we never had a heatwave before 19 June. We have had several in the 21st century, but none before 15 June,” said the state TV meteorologist Panos Giannopoulos.
Fotis Pappous, an electrician, said he had started his workday a few hours earlier, at 6am, on orders from his employer. “With this kind of heat, it would be too risky otherwise,” he said. “We have no choice, it’s the start of the tourist season,” said Elisavet Robou, a kebab store owner.
“We have air conditioning and fans, and staff are allowed to take breaks, but unfortunately the climate crisis is here.” She went on: “Heatwaves came earlier this year and the season will be difficult.” A teacher said: “There was no air conditioning in any of the rooms so we used fans, some of which the teachers brought from their own homes.”
“Exams should not have been held under these conditions,” said a pupil who saw their exams and lessons cancelled amid the stifling heat.