ATHENS, Greece — The Acropolis of Athens, Greece’s most-visited tourist attraction, shut its gates during the hottest hours on Wednesday as the country grappled with its earliest-ever recorded heat wave. The UNESCO World Heritage site closed from midday to 5 p.m., with temperatures soaring above 43 degrees Celsius (109 degrees Fahrenheit) in central Greece.
The unprecedented June heat prompted school closures and health warnings across the nation. Meteorologists predict temperatures could reach up to 44 degrees Celsius on Thursday as the heat wave peaks, with Athens expecting highs of 43 degrees Celsius.
“This heat wave will go down in history,” meteorologist Panos Giannopoulos stated on state broadcaster ERT. “In the 20th century, we never had a heat wave before June 19. We have had several in the 21st century, but none before June 15.”
The phenomenon marks the earliest time Greece has experienced such intense heat—defined as temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. The early arrival of extreme temperatures has raised concerns about the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, often attributed to global climate change trends.
Authorities have issued advisories urging residents and visitors to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun, and check on vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with health conditions.
The closure of the Acropolis, an iconic symbol of ancient civilization, highlights the broader impact of extreme weather events on cultural heritage sites and tourism—sectors vital to Greece’s economy.
As nations around the world face similar challenges, the situation in Greece underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address climate resilience and protect both people and historical landmarks from the effects of rising temperatures.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
