From today, Sunday, June 21, the Meltemi winds affecting the Aegean Sea will continue to be strong, with high temperatures adding to the increased risk of wildfires. Already, several eastern regions of the country have raised the fire risk to category 3 (high risk of fires).

According to the latest forecast, temperatures will continue to rise to 30 to 32° Celcius across the country and may reach 35° Celcius in the west.

The “heat dome” now affecting the UK and much of Western Europe, raising temperatures to health risk levels, will likely move east to bring severe heat waves to Greece and the Balkan countries.

The weather conditions are consistent with predictions that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense globally due to human-induced climate change.

Due to the hazardous conditions, the public is being asked to be extra careful and vigilant, as the vast majority of wildfires are caused by people!

The rules to be followed are:-

• The lighting of outdoor grills/BBQs in the countryside, or in areas with dry grass, is prohibited.
• Tasks that could cause a fire (eg welding, welding or other tools that create sparks) are banned in rural areas.
• Do not throw away lit cigarettes in rural areas, especially from vehicles, as these can cause fires at the roadside that can rapidly spread.
• Do not leave rubbish in forested areas, as this can lead to spontaneous ignition.
• Do not park vehicles over dry foliage, as hot exhausts can cause fires.
• Fireworks and flying lanterns are banned.

Respect any prohibitions of access to high-risk areas, such as forests, when introduced.

If you see smoke, flames, or anything that could lead to a fire, call the Fire Department immediately on 199 or 112

• Do not assume that someone else has raised the alarm.
• Do not hang up the phone before giving all the necessary information, including:
  – your location and the location of the fire
  – the direction of the fire
  – the intensity of the wind in the area
  – the type of vegetation that is burning
• Do not block access to forested areas