A heat wave gripping Greece has prompted warnings to stay indoors as temperatures are due to soar to 43 degrees Celsius over the next few days. Across the southern Mediterranean country, air conditioning systems working flat out pushed energy consumption towards an all- time high while firefighters worked overtime to contain more than 50 forest fires, fanned by rising temperatures and strong winds.
Authorities expect the heat wave to continue for at least another two days, making this one of Greece's hottest Julys ever.
In Greece, with memories of a 1987 heat wave that killed hundreds strong, health officials advised the elderly and children to avoid sun exposure, stay indoors and drink plenty of water.
24.07.2009
