15 Mar 2023 | 04:41 AM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least early March 17
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least early March 17. Possible disruptions to transport, business, and utilities.
Event
Severe weather is forecast nationwide through at least early March 17. As of early March 15, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an orange level (the middle level on a three-tier scale) Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin, warning of a temporary deterioration in weather conditions across much of the country through early March 17. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms will likely be accompanied in place by lightning, strong winds, and hail. The adverse weather is forecast to impact the Ionian Islands, Epirus region, and western Sterea from early March 15 and western Peloponnese, eastern Aegean Islands, and Dodecanese Islands from the afternoon of March 15. The severe weather is likely to persist in the Cyclades, Crete, and Dodecanese islands through early March 17.
As of early March 15, authorities have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Epirus, the Ionian Islands, western Peloponnese, and Western Greece regions.
Yellow thunderstorms warnings: the rest of western and central Greece.
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
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.
