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Greece heat wave triggers red‑code fire alerts and protective measures
A severe heat wave swept across Greece on 22 July 2026, with temperatures reaching 43 °C in parts of Attica, Thessaly and the eastern mainland. The National Meteorological Service issued an extreme‑weather warning, and the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection placed the national fire‑prevention system on “Red Code” – the highest alert level (risk category 5) for the regions of Attica, Boeotia, Phthiotis, Argolis and Corinthia, and a very high risk (category 4) for many other prefectures.
Authorities mobilised additional firefighting personnel, vehicles, helicopters and water‑bombing aircraft, while local governments opened climate‑controlled shelters and advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, and seek shade. A mandatory suspension of outdoor manual work from 13:00 to 17:00 was imposed in the most affected areas, covering construction sites, farms and delivery services, with exemptions for critical infrastructure.
Health officials warned vulnerable groups – the elderly, infants, and people with chronic illnesses – to take extra precautions. Citizens were urged to follow instructions from emergency services and to report any fire outbreaks immediately.