Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of country through at least early March 2

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Greece through at least early March 2 due to a passing storm system named Storm Emil. As of Feb. 29, 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 deterioration in weather conditions as the system moves west to east across the country late Feb. 29-early March 2. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in many areas, and storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of Feb. 29, officials have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Central and Western Macedonia, Eastern and Western Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, and Thessaly regions.

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: The Ionian Islands and Eastern and Western Peloponnese regions.

• Orange strong wind warnings: The Ionian Islands Region.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Epirus and West Sterea regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: West Sterea Region.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Crete Region.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over 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 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.

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.