This Year's Heatwave Under the Scientists' Microscope

The intense July heatwave that hit Greece is under the microscope of scientists. Kostas Lagouvardos, Research Director at the National Observatory of Athens, explains to in.gr the conclusions scientists are drawing.

Mr. Lagouvardos points out that the heatwave is the biggest climate risk we face, causing problems for health, tourism, and ecosystems. It is worrying that we have had a heatwave in four of the last five summers, indicating a rapid change.

In addition to the number of heatwaves, their duration is also increasing. The consecutive days with temperatures above 37 degrees Celsius are now too many. Accurate weather forecasting requires patience and composure to be precise.

Wind flow and topography play a significant role in temperatures. The descending northern wind can heat the southern, coastal areas, preventing the sea breeze from working.

Mr. Lagouvardos emphasizes that record temperatures are not required to talk about an extreme heatwave. The frequency of heatwaves in recent years is extreme.

The hours with high temperatures are prolonged, especially in urban centers. Citizens are starting to get used to very high temperatures, underestimating the risk.

Citizens are taking precautions but losing their summer daily life, spending the whole day in air-conditioned places.