Authorities in Athens temporarily closed the Acropolis on Tuesday afternoon as extreme heat continued to grip much of Greece. The popular tourist site was shut from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time (1000 to 1400 GMT), according to the archaeological service of the Culture Ministry, to protect visitors and staff from dangerously high temperatures.
Work restrictions remained in effect across several regions, particularly in central Greece and the islands, where temperatures soared above 40°C (104°F). Since Monday, outdoor workers have been subject to mandatory breaks during peak heat hours. Employers who fail to comply face fines of 2,000 euros (around $2,350) per worker.
Officials also warned that wildfire risks, already at a “very high” level in the eastern mainland, are expected to rise further as the week progresses due to continued heat and dry conditions.
Elsewhere in Europe, northeastern Spain battled a large wildfire that scorched approximately 3,000 hectares (about 7,400 acres) on Tuesday. In Tarragona province, around 18,000 residents were instructed to stay indoors due to the threat.
Other regions in Spain also remained on high alert for fires, following record-breaking temperatures throughout June that left landscapes dry and highly flammable.
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