Several archaeological sites across the country have been ordered to close their gates today, newspaper Kathimerini reported, as the current heatwave shows no signs of letting up yet. Meteorologists have warned that today will be the hottest day in the Attica region (which includes Athens), but the heat will most certainly continue throughout this week.

As the summer vacation period begins for many Athenians, many leave the city in search of relief on the islands and at holiday homes in the mountain villages, but the hot weather engulfs the whole country, with temperatures above 40-41°C in most places, and up to 46°C in some areas. Speaking to Kathimerini, Costas Lagouvardos, research director at Athens Observatory, said this heatwave will be one of the longest in the last 35 years.

To avoid power outages as the whole country depends on air-conditioning to cool down indoor spaces, the government has asked (link in Greek) citizens to limit their electricity usage by keeping their air-conditioning units set to 26°C and avoiding use of washing machines, ovens and boilers, especially during the hours 13:00-15.00 and 18:00-22:00.

Due to the high fire risk, fire should not be used for any reason. It’s recommended to avoid venturing into forested areas.

A video created by Up Stories and meteo.gr using a thermographic camera shows the extreme temperatures at the Acropolis hill and Omonia square in Athens. Appearing in deep red, the temperature of the container offices on the hill, as well as rooftops and asphalt roads, reportedly reached 77°C. The large round fountain at Omonia Square, meanwhile, built to help lower the temperature in its vicinity, appears in dark blue.