ATHENS: Laborers were pausing outdoor work and tourists seeking out shade on Tuesday as Greece sweltered under its third heatwave of the summer.

Soaring temperatures gripped the wider Balkan region, fueling wildfires in Albania.

The Greek government has ordered workers such as couriers, food delivery riders, and builders to take a break from midday until 5 p.m. to avoid heat stress, particularly those with underlying health issues.

Greece, situated at Europe’s southernmost tip, is no stranger to hot summers but climate change has exacerbated the severity of these heatwaves.

Athens, one of the most densely populated capitals in Europe, sees tourists flocking to air-conditioned restaurants and stores as a respite from the heat.

The Acropolis was closed for five hours on Tuesday and Wednesday due to the high temperatures.

Neighboring countries have also been affected by the heatwave.

In Bulgaria, authorities advised businesses to provide water and reduce physical labor during peak sun hours.

Montenegro saw traffic congestion as people sought relief at beaches, while Albania had to deploy firefighters supported by aircraft from Italy and Greece to combat wildfires in national parks.

This recent heatwave follows another severe one last month that caused deaths and triggered forest fires across Western Europe.

In addition, 2024 was the warmest year on record globally, with temperatures exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels for the first time.

The research also indicates a significant rise in soil surface temperatures around Athens due to recent wildfires.

Authorities across the region are urging caution and implementing measures to protect both workers and tourists from the extreme weather conditions.