Greece Heatwave Leads to Multiple Tourist Deaths Amid High Temperatures

In Greece, a severe heatwave has resulted in the deaths and disappearances of several tourists. Among the deceased is Dr. Michael Mosley, a renowned author and broadcaster, who died on June 5, 2024, while hiking on Symi Island. Subsequently, the body of an American tourist was found on Mathraki Island, and a Dutch man was discovered dead in a ravine on Samos Island. Authorities are also currently searching for two missing French women and a U.S. tourist across various Greek islands.

The extreme heat, reaching over 40°C, has forced Greek authorities to close certain tourist attractions. Meteorologists, including Panos Giannopoulos from ERT TV, have stated that this heatwave will be historically significant. Measures to protect public health during the heatwave include providing access to air-conditioned spaces and using fans in educational institutions where exams are being conducted.

Vassilis Kikilias, Greece’s Minister for Civil Protection, indicated a high alert for wildfires due to the combination of early heatwaves and a dry winter. To combat these challenges, Athens officials have made provisions to ensure accessibility to cool environments for residents and tourists alike.