Dytiki Elláda

Greece is facing an increased risk of heat stress due to climate change, with higher temperatures contributing to health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups like the elderly, who experience higher mortality rates during heatwaves [1]. Forecasts predict a rise of 15-20 more heatwave days per year by 2050, and with a very high emissions scenario, the average annual air temperature of mainland Greece is expected to increase by 3.4°C by the middle of the century [2]. Urban areas will experience more intense heat due to the urban heat island effect, especially in the regional capital of Western Greece, which will see the greatest temperature rise of all major Greek cities under a high-emission scenario. Tropical nights, where temperatures remain above 20°C, will also become more frequent along the western coastline, including the region of Western Greece [3].

The decrease in rainfall levels (expected to decline by 10-30% by 2050) combined with more frequent heatwaves will lead to increased dry spells and droughts in Greece. While higher temperatures may extend the cultivation period for certain crops, the negative consequences of severe droughts are expected to reduce the growth potential of most crops [4].

Wildfires have been a longstanding challenge for Greece, and in 2023, the country experienced one of its worst wildfire seasons, with more than 140,000 hectares burned [5]. Smaller fires continued in Western Greece in 2024, with 712 hectares burned in October (Ref: 9). Wildfires damage local areas and ecosystems, reducing landscape resilience and hindering its ability to absorb heat and flooding. Climate change is expected to increase the number of high-risk wildfire days by 15-70% by 2050, particularly due to reduced rainfall. In a high-emission scenario, the consequences of wildfires will likely be far more devastating than today [6].