Heatwave in Greece and Southeast Europe by Jo Farrow
A searing heatwave across southeastern Europe over the past few days as seen temperatures soar into the low 40’s Celsius.
High pressure over the west of the Mediterranean has brought some very hot air from North Africa into Greece and the Balkans and up across other parts of Europe.
In Greece, inland temperatures reached 43C (109F) yesterday, whilst the Island of Rhodes touched 45C (113F). Rising energy consumption triggered minor power cuts across parts of the mainland and some of the islands. There have been fears of a nationwide electricity blackout as the heat continues.
Tourists and residents in Greece have been warned to prepare for the worst over the next few days after similar temperatures in 1987 and 2000, which broke records, caused deaths and wildfires.
Further north in Romania, some 19 people have been killed from the heat in the last two days. Temperatures are set to rise further at the start of this week. The heatwave has brought a drought for Romanian farmers, who have already suffered a dry winter and spring.
Although this heatwave is not expected to last very long, some very high temperatures will be reached over the next few days which could cause further difficulties.
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