22 Feb 2022 | 08:06 AM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Feb. 24
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least Feb. 24. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities are possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, heavy snowfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds are forecast across much of Greece through at least Feb. 24.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued a severe weather bulletin detailing the forecast weather conditions across Greece. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are likely across Epirus, Ionian Islands, western Peloponnese, and western Central Greece regions through the afternoon of Feb. 22, in eastern Central Greece, Central Macedonia, East Macedonia and Thrace, Thessaly, and West Macedonia regions through early Feb. 23, and over Crete and South Aegean regions from early Feb. 23 through Feb. 24. Heavy snowfall is forecast over the West Macedonia Region as well as the mountainous areas of Epirus, Central Macedonia, and Thessaly regions from the afternoon of Feb. 22 through early Feb. 23 while strong winds are likely in the Ionian Islands, North Aegean, and South Aegen regions from early Feb. 22. The temperature is likely to drop by 5-7 C (9-12.6 F) in the eastern parts of the country Feb. 23. As of early Feb. 22, orange (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings are in place for western Central Macedonia, Epirus, Ionian Islands, Thessaly, West Greece, and West Macedonia regions. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The adverse weather could see rounds of heavy rainfall, snowfall, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across Greece in the coming days. 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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. There is the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
The disruptive weather will possibly cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
