21 Mar 2022 | 03:04 PM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of country through at least March 23
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least March 23. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Adverse weather, including heavy rainfall, snowfall, cold temperatures, and strong winds, are forecast across much of Greece through at least March 23. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has warned that cold temperatures and strong winds are likely in the Aegean Islands through March 23, and from March 22, snowfall will become more intense across eastern and mainland parts of Greece especially at higher altitudes.
Moderate snowfall is forecast across Thessaly, Sterea, Evia, and eastern and central Peloponnese regions March 21, as well as in mountainous areas of Crete. Increasingly intense snowfall is likely to occur in Sterea, Evia, Thessaly, the Sporades Islands, central and eastern Macedonia, Thrace, eastern Peloponnese, and Crete March 22. Heavy rainfall is likely in coastal areas of the affected regions, as well as across the Dodecanese and Cyclades islands. Snowfall will be limited to eastern Sterea, Evia, and Crete March 23.
As of March 21, authorities have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Crete.
Yellow snowfall warnings: Crete, East Peloponnese, East Stera and Evia, and Thessaly regions.
Yellow cold temperature warnings: East, Central, and West Macedonia, East Peloponnese, East Sterea and Evia, Epirus, Thessaly, and Thrace regions.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Attica, Crete, East Peloponnese, East Sterea and Evia, and Thessaly regions, as well as the Cyclades and North East Aegean islands.
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.
