13 Oct 2022 | 12:58 PM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across southern and western regions through at least Oct. 16
Severe weather forecast across southern and western Greece through Oct. 16. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across parts of southern and western Greece through at least Oct. 16. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin, warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, localized hail, and strong winds across the affected area from late Oct. 13 through early Oct. 16. Heavy rainfall and storms are forecast to impact the Ionian Islands, Epirus, and Western Greece regions late Oct. 13-late Oct. 14. The storms will affect parts of Peloponnese, southern Thessaly, and Central Greece regions, as well as the western Cyclades Islands in the South Aegean Region, from Oct. 14 and the western and southern Cyclades, Crete, and the Dodecanese islands from Oct. 15.
As of Oct. 13, authorities have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:
Orange thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Epirus, Ionian Islands, and northern Western Greece regions.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
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 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 has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.
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. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
