Greece: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions through at least July 4

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across northern and central Greece through at least July 4. The Hellenic Meteorological Service has issued an orange Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin (the middle level on a three-tier scale), warning an unstable air mass moving in from the Balkans will cause the weather to deteriorate in the region from the early afternoon July 3 through late afternoon July 4. The worst of the adverse weather is expected in parts of Central and Eastern Macedonia and Thrace regions July 3-4 and Thessaly, the Sporades Islands, Central Greece, Attica, northeastern Peloponnese, and Evia Island July 4. 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 July 2, officials have issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

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

• Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: 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 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.