Heatwave: Attica's Hottest Areas

The heatwave severely impacted urban centers, with Attica recording the highest temperatures. According to METEO, in many areas of Attica, the temperature was at or above 30 degrees Celsius for 80% of the day's hours during the heatwave that lasted from July 20 to July 28.

Kostas Lagouvardos, research director at the National Observatory of Athens, emphasized the importance of the 'urban heat island' effect, where tall buildings and narrow streets impede air circulation, exacerbating heatwave conditions.

According to Giorgos Kyros of METEO, Piraeus was the most affected area, with temperatures above 30 degrees for 80% of the day. Other particularly affected areas included Peristeri, Neos Kosmos, Nea Smyrni, Nikaia, Metamorfosi, Ampelokipi, and Ilioupoli. Even in northern Chalandri, the percentage of hours with temperatures above 30 degrees was 70%.

Outside of Attica, high temperatures were recorded in Thessaly (Larissa, Trikala, Karditsa), eastern Sterea Ellada (Thiva, Lamia), as well as areas of Messinia, Ilia, and Lakonia. Also, in Evros, Kilkis, and southern Crete.

Mr. Lagouvardos noted that the frequency and duration of heatwaves are expected to increase in the future.