Meteorologists are warning that a major and sustained heat wave with temperatures reaching 43° Celsius (109.4° Fahrenheit) is about to affect many areas of Greece. Tomorrow, Sunday, July 20, will see temperatures start to increase, reaching 38°C. However, today, local showers and isolated storms are forecast for the central and northern regions.

On Monday, temperatures are expected to reach 40°, whilst  Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will be even hotter days, as temperatures are expected to reach 42°C and in some areas 43°C.

Forecasters cite the cause of the heat wave as a warm air mass that is moving up from North Africa.

Simple advice in a heat wave:

Dress for the heat – Dress for heatwave conditions in lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes. Cotton ‘breathes’ and absorbs perspiration, helping to cool your body.

Drink plenty – Most heat-related problems result from dehydration. Drink non-alcoholic fluids even before you feel thirsty (which occurs when you are approximately one litre dehydrated). Maintain a constant intake – up to 1 litre an hour if exercising or walking. Passing light yellow urine several times a day is the best indicator of adequate hydration. Please note: Alcohol causes dehydration because it is a diuretic, which means it causes the body to pass more liquid through urination.

Take time to acclimatise – It can take time to adjust to the higher temperatures in a hot, humid country – especially for kids and elderly or overweight people. Take it easy for a day or 2 until all members of your group are ready to tackle the holiday schedule.

Recognise the warning signs – Heat can cause a range of symptoms – muscle cramps, tiredness, nausea, vomiting – even an altered mental state. Kids are more susceptible.

Never leave children alone in a car – Everyone has heard the tragic stories of children being left in a car. A car can heat up from 27^oC to 49°C in just 15 minutes!