Heatwave mitigation efforts in Southeast Europe

Municipalities in Southeastern Europe are implementing various measures to protect citizens from extreme summer heatwaves.

In Sofia, Bulgaria, the city launched its first “climate shelter” through the EU-co-funded “Be Ready” project. This pilot initiative transformed a neglected courtyard into a green space with shade and seating to mitigate urban heat-island effects and provide community relief.

In Greece, authorities in Athens and Thessaloniki are activating emergency measures to combat expected heatwaves. In Athens, seven Friendship Clubs in locations such as Agios Pavlos, Neos Kosmos, Botanikos, Kolokynthos, Agios Eleftherios, Kypseli, and Ampelokipoi will serve as air-conditioned cooling centers from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. starting Sunday, August 23. To support vulnerable groups, the municipality is providing water, refreshments, and hygiene kits to these centers and homeless shelters. A 24-hour citizen service line (1595) and a dedicated medical helpline for heatwave advice are also operational. Furthermore, municipal services are on high alert, with cleaning and green departments conducting patrols and municipal police utilizing drones to monitor high-risk areas.

In Thessaloniki, the municipality has designated several cooling areas for the weekend of August 22-23. Available spaces include the City Hall foyer (8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and the Open Day Center for the Homeless (9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Specialized overnight sleeping facilities for men and women are also available at the KAPΗ branch. Local authorities continue to advise citizens, particularly the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, to maintain hydration and avoid sun exposure during peak hours.