Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 20

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Greece through at least March 20. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to move in from the west and spread across much of the country March 19. Showers and storms are forecast to persist across the eastern and southern mainland and most island regions March 20. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Snowfall is possible in elevated parts of northern Greece. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas.

As of March 19, officials have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:

• Orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Central and Eastern Macedonia, East Stera and Evia, and Thessaly regions.

• Orange heavy snowfall warning: East Macedonia Region.

• Yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings: Attica, Crete, Cyclades Islands, East and West Peloponnese, Epirus, Ionian Islands, Thrace, West Macedonia, and West Sterea regions.

• Yellow snowfall warning: Thrace 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 rain 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.

Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities may temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flight delays and cancellations at airports are possible.

Localized business disruptions are possible in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.