British holidaymakers are being urged to take extreme caution as a deadly heatwave sweeps across Greece, with reports confirming more than a dozen tourists have tragically lost their lives.
Temperatures have soared beyond 40°C (104°F) in recent days, creating dangerous conditions for visitors unaccustomed to such intense heat. The Greek authorities have issued urgent warnings, particularly for those hiking or exploring remote areas.
Heatwave Claims Multiple Lives
Among the victims was a 55-year-old American tourist found collapsed near the Acropolis in Athens. Another tragic case involved a Dutch man, 67, who perished while hiking on Samos. Disturbingly, several deaths occurred as tourists attempted strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
Expert Safety Advice
Medical professionals emphasise these critical precautions:
- Avoid outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when the sun is strongest
- Drink at least 2 litres of water daily, even if not thirsty
- Wear light-coloured, loose clothing and wide-brimmed hats
- Apply high-factor sunscreen every two hours
- Seek immediate shade if feeling dizzy or nauseous
Travel Industry Response
Major UK tour operators are updating their advice to customers, with some offering flexible rebooking options. The Foreign Office has added heat warnings to its Greece travel advice page, reminding travellers that travel insurance may not cover heat-related incidents if proper precautions aren't taken.
Meteorologists predict the heatwave will continue through July, with nighttime temperatures remaining dangerously high. Elderly travellers and those with pre-existing conditions are considered particularly vulnerable.
