Climate Change: Severe September heatwave predicted for Greece and Turkey with temperatures up to 39C

Recent weather maps indicate that Greece and Turkey are poised to endure an intense heatwave, with forecasts predicting temperatures soaring up to 39 degrees Celsius in certain areas. The continuation of this summer heatwave has kept the region under its grip, causing significant concern among residents and visitors alike.

Forecasts for Greece and Turkey Indicate Extreme Heat Levels

As we approach the first week of September, temperatures in Greece are projected to rise to approximately 36 degrees Celsius near Larissa, while the vicinity of Izmir on Turkey’s Aegean coast could experience highs of 35 degrees Celsius by Friday, September 6.

Scorching Temperatures to Persist Across Both Nations

Projections for September 8 suggest that entire regions across both nations will frequently witness temperatures in the low to mid-30 degrees Celsius range, with Istanbul possibly reaching 30 degrees Celsius, Antalya 31 degrees Celsius, Alanya 28 degrees Celsius, Bodrum 31 degrees Celsius, and Izmir potentially hitting 33 degrees Celsius. Alarmingly, the chart forecasts indicate the eastern Turkish town of Tire may see extraordinary highs of 39 degrees Celsius.

Athens Among Several Greek Cities Expecting High Temperatures

Athens, the capital of Greece, is also expected to be remarkably warm, with forecasts estimating a maximum temperature of 35 degrees Celsius at the same time that Kalamata is predicted to reach 32 degrees Celsius, Parga 35 degrees Celsius, and Rhodes 31 degrees Celsius. The ongoing heatwave in Greece has prompted official advisories from the Foreign Office, urging British tourists to exercise caution during their stay, particularly given the heightened risk of wildfires.

Dry Conditions with Isolated Thunderstorms Predicted in Southeastern Europe

According to meteorological data analysed by BBC Weather in partnership with MeteoGroup, the southeastern region of Europe will experience dry and sun-drenched conditions this week, with Athens likely registering temperatures of around 32 degrees Celsius, Antalya 33 degrees Celsius, and Nicosia reaching 36 degrees Celsius on Friday, August 30. Meteorologist Darren Bett remarked that central Europe is primarily dry and hot, though there may be isolated thunderstorms near the Black Sea, carrying southward towards mainland Greece.

Heat Persists Across Greece and Turkey with Potential for Wildfires

Predictions for the current day indicate that Athens may peak at 33 degrees Celsius, while Kozani may see 29 degrees Celsius, Chios 29 degrees Celsius, Faliraki 32 degrees Celsius, and Thessaloniki 31 degrees Celsius, as reported by the Met Office. Various Turkish locations exhibit even higher temperatures, with Adana at 33 degrees Celsius, Gaziantep reaching 35 degrees Celsius, and an alarming 39 degrees Celsius in Diyarbakir.

Wildfires and Disruptions Already a Consequence of the Heatwave

This extreme heat has already resulted in wildfires in Greece, with dangerous flames inching toward the capital earlier this month, prompting evacuation alerts in affected areas. In June, due to a preceding heatwave, schools throughout Greece were compelled to close their doors, and several tourist attractions, including the Acropolis in Athens, suspended operations in response to soaring temperatures.

Definitions of Heatwaves in Greece and Turkey and Average Temperatures

The United Kingdom’s national weather service, Met Office, defines a heatwave in Greece as a phenomenon during which the temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. Conversely, the Turkish State Meteorological Service outlines a heatwave as a prolonged duration during which temperatures surpass the highest average temperature by 10 degrees Celsius or more, in conjunction with elevated humidity levels. Notably, the average temperature for September stands at 21 degrees Celsius in Greece, and 26 degrees Celsius in Turkey as reported by TUI.

Both Greece and Turkey face a precarious situation with escalating temperatures, underscoring the need for safety precautions and awareness during this ongoing heatwave. Authorities are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in their response to the impact of this weather phenomenon, ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors alike.