Athens, 11 June 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Warm air masses over North Africa and the central Mediterranean are making their way eastwards, and will cause temperatures to rise up to 45 degrees Celsius in places in Greece and Turkey from Tuesday to Friday.

The highest temperatures are expected on Wednesday and Thursday before the heat subsides at the weekend, according to the Greek weather service.

From Tuesday onwards, schools in parts of the country will either close at 11.30 am, or remain closed completely if local municipalities decide the heat is too intense.  

The Greek Ministry of Labour called on people in both the public and private sectors to work from home if possible.

For the many tourists currently in Athens, the Greek Red Cross has set up stands in the central Syntagma Square and at the Acropolis, where staff are handing out free water.

People are being advised to avoid going outside in the hot midday hours, to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, not to eat too much, and avoid vigorous exercise outdoors. Many cities and municipalities in Greece are opening public, air-conditioned buildings where the homeless, the needy and people who do not have air conditioning at home can seek shelter.

The Turkish weather service also warned of the heatwave, which will hit the west of the country in particular, where temperatures in the mid-forties are expected. It is advising people to avoid being outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm, especially the elderly, children and the chronically ill.