Greece: 10 days of heat wave, 44 degrees expected

(ANSA) - ATHENS, 01 JUL - After 10 days of a heat wave, temperatures in Greece will increase further today, reaching 44 degrees in some areas, according to the forecasts of the Athens Meteorological Observatory.

    The highest temperatures will be recorded in mainland Greece, in the center of the country, according to the Hellenic meteorological services. The municipality of Athens has made available to the most vulnerable populations, especially the homeless, some air-conditioned common rooms during the day.

    The Acropolis of Athens, one of the country's most visited tourist sites, is expected to close today between 1pm and 5pm, due to the heat wave sweeping the Greek capital, according to the site's management.

    Greek civil protection has called for attention throughout this week, especially for the elderly and children who need to hydrate regularly and avoid exposure to the sun. He also warned of the "high risk of fires in several regions" and assured that firefighters were mobilized throughout the country.

    Greece regularly faces heat waves and forest fires during the summer. In July 1987, nearly 1,500 people died as a result of one of the worst heat waves in Greek history. (HANDLE).