Heatwave Guardians: The Evzones' Unwavering Duty in Athens 2024

In the heart of Athens, a relentless heatwave grips the city, pushing temperatures to a blistering 45 degrees Celsius. Amid this sweltering atmosphere, the Evzones, Greece's Elite Presidential Guard, stand as symbols of resilience and duty. These soldiers, stationed at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, endure extreme heat that can reach up to 70 degrees Celsius on their traditional Tsarouchia (shoes). Despite the oppressive conditions, the Evzones maintain their solemn vigil, showcasing their unwavering commitment and the challenges faced by Athens during this prolonged heatwave.

The Evzones' duty is not just a matter of standing guard; it is a test of endurance and discipline. Their role at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Presidential Palace, and the gate of the Presidential Guard camp in Herodes Atticus is one of immense pride and significance. As temperatures soar, the challenges they face grow exponentially. The heatwave has transformed Athens into a cauldron of scorching temperatures, creating a suffocating atmosphere exacerbated by the concrete structures that surround the city.

In a video uploaded by Up Stories, the reality of this heatwave is vividly depicted. The footage, captured using a thermal camera-equipped drone, reveals the extreme temperatures that the city and its inhabitants endure. At 3:30 p.m., during the changing of the guard, the temperature on the 'burning' road reaches 60 degrees Celsius, while the tassels from the Tsarouchia of the Evzones reach temperatures of 67-70 degrees Celsius. This occurs even on days without a heatwave, highlighting the severity of the current situation.

The situation for pedestrians and motorbike riders on the streets of Athens is dire, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels. The Up Stories video provides a stark illustration of the harsh reality faced by the city's residents and visitors. The intense heatwave has not only made daily life challenging but has also underscored the growing impact of climate change and urban heat islands on metropolitan areas.

Athens is currently experiencing an intense and prolonged heatwave, creating a suffocating atmosphere exacerbated by the concrete structures that surround the city. With temperatures stubbornly lingering around 40 degrees Celsius, the streets of Athens are "boiling," as vividly depicted in a video uploaded by Up Stories. The footage starkly illustrates the harsh reality faced by the city's residents and visitors.

The plight of the Presidential Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square is particularly concerning. Completing their one-hour demanding service under such extreme conditions is undoubtedly a formidable challenge. The dedication and resilience of the Evzones in these conditions are a testament to their training and commitment to their duty. They stand as a symbol of strength and perseverance, even as the city around them struggles with the oppressive heat.

As Up Stories emphasizes, while their measurements may lack scientific precision, the conclusion is clear: life in big cities like Athens will become increasingly difficult with each passing day due to rising temperatures. The video serves as a poignant reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change and urban heat islands, urging us to consider the impact on our daily lives and the need for sustainable solutions.

Over the past month, Athens has been grappling with a severe and prolonged heatwave. Temperatures have frequently soared to around 40 degrees Celsius and even higher, with some regions experiencing temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius. This extreme heat has led to various challenges, including increased risks of wildfires, particularly in areas like Crete and Rhodes, and has forced the closure of popular tourist sites like the Acropolis during peak heat hours. The City of Athens has responded by opening air-conditioned spaces and providing medical support to help residents cope with the intense heat.

The resilience of the Evzones during this heatwave is a powerful symbol of the challenges faced by Athens and its residents. Their unwavering commitment to their duty, despite the extreme conditions, serves as a reminder of the strength and perseverance required to endure such hardships. As the city continues to grapple with rising temperatures, the Evzones stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of Athens and its people.