13 Oct 2021 | 06:48 PM UTC
Greece: Storm Ballos to bring adverse weather to much of country through Oct. 16
Storm Ballos to bring heavy rain and strong winds to much of Greece through Oct. 16. Business, transport, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Storm Ballos is forecast to bring adverse weather conditions to much of Greece through Oct. 16. Authorities have issued various weather advisories ahead of the storm's forecast arrival. Notably, Meteoalarm has issued a red thunderstorm warning (the highest level on a four-tier scale) for Greece's Ionian Islands and West Sterea region effective from early Oct. 14 through late Oct. 15; heavy rain and severe thunderstorms are likely in these regions during the specified time frame.
Additionally, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued a red weather warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for Ballos, indicating that the system will bring heavy rainfall, localized hail, and strong winds to much of the country from Oct. 14. These impacts will initially affect the Ionian Islands, the western mainland, and Greek Macedonia before gradually impacting much of the rest of the country by around 12:00 Oct. 14. Ballos is subsequently forecast to affect most of Greece Oct. 15, with weather conditions easing in northwestern areas of the country on the afternoon of Oct. 15. The storm will bring heavy rain to eastern regions Oct. 16. The storm's forecast could change in the coming hours.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil is already saturated by recent heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, as well as disruption to shipping in the Ionian and Aegean seas. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of potential flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
