23 Jan 2023 | 01:45 PM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Jan. 27 /update 2
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least Jan. 27. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of Greece through at least Jan. 27. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service issued an orange Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin (the middle level on a three-tier scale) warning of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, strong winds, lightning, hail, and rough seas across northern, western, and eastern regions Jan. 19-23, as well as snowfall over elevated areas of mainland Greece. An update to the bulletin has since been issued warnings of further adverse weather Jan. 24 in northern and central regions, before a further worsening of weather conditions from late Jan. 25-27. During this period heavy rainfall and storms are initially expected to impact central, southern, and western regions before spreading to northeastern Greece. Snowfall is also likely over elevated areas of northern and central Greece, as well as rough seas due to strong winds in many coastal regions and a widespread drop in temperature. Heavy downpours associated with the storms may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As of Jan. 23, authorities have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:
Orange thunderstorm warnings: Central Macedonia, Epirus, the Ionian Islands, Thessaly, West Peloponnese, and West Sterea regions.
Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Epirus, the Ionian Islands, Thessaly, West Peloponnese, and West Sterea regions.
Authorities will almost certainly 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.
