Up to 44 degrees: First heat records of the year in Southeast Europe

Temperatures in southeastern Europe are reaching extreme values ​​earlier than in other years: In three regions in Greece, more than 39 degrees were measured on Tuesday – the highest temperatures at the beginning of June since records began, according to the Greek Meteorological Office.

“Extreme heat warning” in Cyprus

The Cypriot weather authority issued an “extreme heat warning”: temperatures on the third largest Mediterranean island were expected to reach 44 degrees on Tuesday and the following days. “High temperatures are a health risk for vulnerable people, such as the elderly and small children. Follow the authorities’ instructions,” it said. In general, doctors advise avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the day, drinking plenty of fluids and wearing light, loose, light-colored clothing.

Twelve degrees too warm

Turkey was also affected by the heat wave, with temperatures over 30 degrees. According to the Meteorological Service, the temperatures are eight to twelve degrees above the seasonal average. Meteorologist Orhan Şen told CNN Türk that the current temperatures could only be a harbinger of extreme heat periods in July and August.

Concern about forest fires

With the ongoing heat and dryness in the region, concerns about forest fires are growing – especially in Greece, where huge areas were destroyed by flames last summer. This year, 3,543 small and medium-sized forest fires had already been registered by the beginning of May – an increase of 22 percent compared to last year, according to the Greek fire service. One of the reasons for this is the very dry winter, which caused dryness in parts of the country. This makes it easy for fires – whether they were started intentionally or caused by negligence – to spread.