The heat is being driven by air masses that are around 6°C to 8°C warmer than normal for this time of year, creating difficult conditions across much of the country during the peak tourist season.
Thessaly, the agricultural heartland of central Greece, and Central Macedonia in the north are expected to be among the hottest regions Sunday, with temperatures around 39°C to 40°C and higher readings possible locally. Western Greece, eastern Central Greece and parts of the Peloponnese are also facing severe heat.
In Athens and the surrounding Attica region, temperatures are expected to reach 38°C to 39°C. The capital is also struggling with unusually warm nights, with temperatures potentially remaining near 29°C to 30°C late in the evening. The lack of overnight cooling increases heat stress as buildings and residents get little respite before the next day's temperatures climb.
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Conditions should begin to change from Monday, though the relief will be uneven. Northern and eastern Greece are expected to cool gradually as northerly winds strengthen, reaching force 6 on the Beaufort scale in the Aegean.
Western Greece and the Peloponnese will remain hotter for longer. Monday and Tuesday could bring temperatures close to 40°C there, while readings of 38°C to 39°C may persist in some areas through Wednesday.
A more significant cooldown is forecast from Thursday, when the meltemi, the strong seasonal northerly wind of the Aegean, is expected to strengthen to force 7 and potentially higher.
The winds will bring welcome relief from the heat but could also heighten Greece's wildfire threat. Days of extreme temperatures have dried vegetation, and stronger winds can allow any fires that start to spread rapidly.
Athens has opened seven air-conditioned municipal facilities Sunday for residents seeking relief, operating from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Outdoor municipal crews are being withdrawn during the hottest hours, while outreach teams are distributing water to homeless people.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to avoid strenuous activity and prolonged sun exposure during the hottest part of the day, stay hydrated and spend time in air-conditioned spaces where possible.
The heat is expected to ease more broadly from Thursday, though forecasts leave open the possibility of another temporary rise in temperatures next weekend.
