The Greek government has declared a state of emergency on the island of Leros due to a severe water shortage exacerbated by a deadly heatwave that has claimed the lives of six tourists, as reported by CNN Greece. The General Secretariat of Civil Protection announced that this state of emergency will remain in effect until July 25.
In a decree issued by General Secretary Vassilis Papageorgiou, it was stated: "We declare a State of Civil Protection Emergency for the Municipality of Leros in the Regional Unit of Kalymnos of the South Aegean Region, to manage the consequences resulting from water shortage phenomena in the aforementioned area."
Local officials on Leros have squarely blamed previous administrations for neglecting essential maintenance on Desalination Units meant to address water supply challenges.
Amidst the severe heatwave, Greece is also grappling with multiple repercussions, including tragic fatalities among tourists. Notably, TV doctor Michael Mosley tragically lost his life while hiking on the island of Symi.
The unprecedented June heatwave has resulted in a series of deaths and disappearances among tourists, many of whom have gone missing during hikes, underscoring the dangers of exposure to temperatures exceeding 40°C.
Wildfires exacerbated by intense conditions compound these challenges, leading to mandatory evacuations in six villages near Anavyssos, close to Athens, and in the southern Peloponnese, according to reports from the Express.
Firefighters on the ground, supported by water-dropping aircraft, have been working to contain the blazes. In response to the severe weather forecast, the greater Athens region has been placed on high alert for wildfires, with restrictions on forest and park access.
The Greek government has implemented various safety measures in response to the extreme temperatures, which have soared above 50°C in some areas. Athens has opened air-conditioned spaces, provided medical advice and support, increased fire patrols in major parks and forests, and launched a dedicated website, https://coolathens.cityofathens.gr/en/, offering guidance and support to residents and tourists alike.
To help manage the heatwave, a state-of-the-art mobile application called Extrema has been developed. This app provides real-time updates on daily temperatures and heat indexes, offers advice on necessary precautions, identifies nearby cool locations such as fountains and parks, suggests shaded walking routes, and monitors local air pollution levels to help users mitigate health risks.
The declaration of a state of emergency coincides with the arraignment of 13 crew members of a luxury superyacht on Wednesday. They face charges related to arson after allegedly setting off fireworks over Hydra Island, sparking a massive forest fire that devastated the island's pine forest.
Judicial officials have indicated that if intent is proven, the accused—nine men and four women—could each face up to 20 years in prison and hefty fines amounting to 200,000 euros.
Mylos: One of the best seafood restaurants in Greece is located in Leros
