08 Mar 2022 | 07:23 PM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of country through at least March 13
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least March 13. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
A cold air mass will move south across Greece through March 13 and is forecast to bring heavy snowfall, cold temperatures, rainfall, thunderstorms, and heavy frost to many parts of the country in the coming days.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued a severe weather bulletin detailing the forecast deterioration of weather conditions across Greece. Snowfall is forecast in Epirus, Macedonia, and Thrace regions from early March 9, then extending throughout the day to parts of Thessaly and Sterea regions and mountainous areas of Crete. Snowfall will also affect Evia, the Sporades, and the northern Aegean Islands overnight March 9-10, and will continue across mountainous areas of mainland Greece, as well as Crete, the Aegean Islands, and lower altitudes in eastern regions March 10. Through March 13, snowfall will likely continue in higher elevations across much of the country and in lower elevations in eastern regions.
As of March 8, authorities have issued orange snowfall and cold temperature warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across Epirus, Macedonia, and Thrace regions. A combination of yellow-level rainfall, thunderstorm, snowfall, and cold temperature warnings have been issued across most of the rest of Greece. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Rounds of heavy rainfall, snowfall, and isolated thunderstorm activity are likely 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 affected areas.
Precipitation will likely 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 affected areas. 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 may cause some business disruptions, as well as 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 precipitation and track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after weather 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 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.
