Health alert issued to Britons in Greece as travellers told to 'avoid activities in the middle of the day'

Travellers have been urged to carry water with them at all times

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Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 05/07/2024

- 09:10

Temperatures in Greece could soar to 46C as a heatwave ravages Europe

Britons jetting off to the south of Europe have been issued a warning as temperatures soar across the continent.

This summer is set to see temperatures hit record numbers, putting foreign travellers at risk of health complications.


The Greek Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, has put the recent heatwave in the southern European hotspot down to the climate crisis.

He said: “People need to understand that climate change is happening and that they need to be very careful.

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Multiple areas in Portugal have received a yellow weather warning

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The government minister added: “We have had cases of foreign travellers who last their lives in Greece.”

British authorities have also expressed concern about the increasing frequency of heatwaves across the continent.

William Spencer, from the British Red Cross, said: “Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and getting worse because of climate change. Sadly, we have seen cases already this year of the tragic impact high temperatures can have on human life.

“We would advise people to plan ahead for the effects of heat on their trip, making sure they know how to recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They should also avoid activities in the middle of the day when temperatures are highest.”

Safety tips for foreign travellers include wearing sunscreens, drinking plenty of water and drinking less alcohol.

“You can also help keep wherever you’re staying cool by keeping blinds and windows closed during the hottest parts of the day,” added Spencer.

Holidaymakers have been urged to carry water with them at all times and wear light fabrics and colours outdoors.

The sudden temperature shift in Greece could see the mercury hit the mid-forties. The country hit a record 48C last summer.

The latest weather maps suggest temperature levels may soar to a staggering 46C as a heatwave ravages southern Europe.

Britons heading to Spain and Portugal have also been urged to take precautions after the countries were given yellow and orange weather warnings.

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According to the Met Office, temperatures could reach up to 36C in Madrid, 36C in Zaragoza and up to 41C in Seville.

A yellow weather warning has also been issued for parts of Portugal, with Portalegre, Evora and Beja all affected.

The Portuguese Insititute for the Sea and the Atmosphere gave a Yellow Warning for Extreme High Temperatures

The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere gave a Yellow Warning for Extreme High Temperatures in effect until Thursday, 7PM WEST.

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