Expats in a Warming Greece: Key Climate Considerations Before You Move
With heatwaves intensifying and summers lengthening, expats moving to Greece must prepare for a warmer future.
Hi - I hope you’re having a fantastic day wherever you are!
There’s a lot of things to consider when planning on relocating to Greece. With where’s the best location, what are the hospitals like, and how to get kids into the school system being just a few.
The weather used to be one of the main attractions in moving to Greece. Perhaps now though, we are getting to the stage where it’s moving out of the attraction category, and into the ‘things to seriously think about’ category.
There’s no denying that the weather extremes over the last decade or so I’ve been living here have intensified. From floods to wildfires, water shortages to Athens experiencing the hottest June on record, Greece as well as other countries in the Mediterranean seem to be on the front line for a changing climate.
As such, it’s probably sensible to think about how this might affect you when planning on relocating to Greece. Here’s a few things you might want to think about:
Rising Temperatures:
Greece is experiencing a significant increase in average temperatures due to climate change. Expats should prepare for more frequent and intense heatwaves, especially during the summer months. Summers are becoming longer and hotter, which can impact daily life and comfort. Sure, the islands do benefit from the Meltemi wind - but it can be a mixed blessing! Those planning to move to Greece should consider how they'll cope with extended periods of high temperatures.
Water Scarcity:
As the climate changes, water scarcity is becoming a pressing issue in Greece. Droughts are more common, putting pressure on water resources, especially on the islands. Expats should be prepared for potential water use restrictions. It's wise to research the water situation in specific areas before moving, as some regions may face more severe shortages than others.
Wildfires:
Climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires in Greece due to hotter and drier conditions. This is a particular concern for those considering living in rural or forested areas.
Energy Consumption:
With rising temperatures, there's an increased demand for air conditioning in Greece. Expats should factor in potentially higher electricity costs, especially during summer months. There may also be strain on power grids during peak times, leading to occasional outages, especially on smaller islands. When choosing a property, consider its energy efficiency and cooling options to manage both comfort and costs.
Health Considerations:
This is a big one and not to be underestimated. Climate change brings new health challenges to Greece. Heat-related illnesses are becoming more common, especially among vulnerable populations. Air quality issues may increase due to higher levels of dust (The yearly African Dust for example) and pollutants, particularly during heatwaves or wildfire seasons. Expats should consider these factors when planning for healthcare needs.
Location Considerations:
The impacts of climate change can vary significantly across Greece. Islands, coastal areas, and inland regions may face different challenges. For example, islands might struggle more with water scarcity, while inland areas could face higher temperatures. Expats should thoroughly research specific locations they're interested in, considering not just current conditions but future climate projections as well.
Long-term Planning:
When planning a move to Greece, it's crucial to consider long-term climate projections. This is especially important when buying property - factors like future cooling needs, water management, and potential climate-related risks should be taken into account. Expats should also be prepared to adapt their lifestyles and make their long-term plans flexible to accommodate ongoing climate changes.
There we go - I hope this didn’t come across as too preachy as that wasn’t the aim! Sitting here in Athens with the air-con blasting and another week of mid to high 30 degrees in front of me, I just want you to consider this: How the weather might impact you should be right up there with all the other main considerations you might have when planning a move to Greece!
Until next time
Dave