An American tourist was found dead on Mathraki beach, the latest in a string of tourist fatalities on Greek islands linked to extreme heat, prompting an ongoing investigation by authorities.

The tourist, last seen at a local cafe with two female companions who have since departed the island, was reported missing by a friend on Thursday. This incident is part of a troubling pattern of recent tourist deaths on Greek islands, often correlated with the extreme heatwave affecting the region. Authorities have noted several similar cases, including fatalities on Amorgos, Symi, and Samos, where tourists succumbed to the soaring temperatures. A coroner has been dispatched to Mathraki to investigate, with an autopsy to be performed in Corfu.

The deceased, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, was found on Mathraki beach late Thursday evening. According to local authorities, the victim showed no immediate signs of foul play, but the extreme weather conditions are believed to be a significant factor.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and are working diligently to piece together the circumstances that led to this unfortunate outcome,” said a spokesperson for the local police department. “We urge all visitors to the region to exercise caution and heed weather advisories.”

The victim's two female companions, who were last seen with the deceased at a local cafe, have since left Mathraki island. Their current whereabouts are unknown. Authorities are making efforts to locate them to gather more information about the circumstances leading up to the tourist's disappearance and subsequent death.

This incident mirrors a troubling trend on several Greek islands, where extreme heat has resulted in multiple tourist fatalities in recent weeks. [

Local health experts are urging tourists to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Dr. Elena Papadopoulou, a public health official, emphasized the importance of these precautions, stating, “Heatwaves of this intensity can be extremely dangerous, especially for those not accustomed to such conditions.”

Greek authorities have dispatched a coroner to Mathraki island to examine the deceased tourist. The autopsy, set to be conducted in Corfu, will provide more definitive insights into the cause of death. Preliminary assessments suggest that heat exposure may have played a critical role, but the findings will ultimately determine the precise cause.

In light of recent events, travel advisories have been heightened, urging tourists to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Tour operators on the islands are disseminating information on safe practices to combat the heat and ensure the well-being of visitors.

The U.S. Embassy in Athens has been notified of the incident and is working in coordination with local authorities to support the ongoing investigation. They are also providing assistance to the deceased's family and seeking to confirm the safety and whereabouts of the missing companions.

As the investigation continues, the overarching concern remains the safety of tourists amid increasingly hostile weather conditions. Authorities are calling for increased awareness and preparedness to prevent further tragedies during this unprecedented heatwave.