Orange warning for Saturday, 43C expected

An orange warning for extreme high temperatures was issued for Saturday, with temperatures expected to reach around 43C inland and 32C in higher mountainous areas.

The warning is valid from 11:00 until 17:00 local time.

For Friday evening (21:00) to Saturday morning (9:00) the warning remains at yellow level with the minimum temperature expected to fall around 26C over inland, south and east coasts and 25C to the west coast.

Meanwhile, the risk of explosion and spreading of forest fires remains on “red alert” for Saturday, the forestry department said.

It is also noted that lighting a fire without a permit is prohibited and that it constitutes an offence which, according to the Forestry Law of 2012, is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000 or both penalties together and according to the Fire Prevention in the Countryside Law of 1988 up to five years or with a fine of up to €20,000 or both penalties together.

The lighting of a fire, for preparing food, is only allowed in the grills of the designated picnic areas.

The forestry department issued a strong appeal to the public to exercise heightened caution during outings and to avoid activities that could potentially cause fires. This includes refraining from using tools or agricultural machinery that generate heat, sparks, or flames, such as electric saws, welding equipment, and electric welders.

If members of the public observe any smoke or fire, they are urged to contact the forestry department at 1407 or the fire service at 112 immediately