Greece: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions through Aug. 31

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of northern and central Greece through Aug. 31. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an updated orange level Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin (the middle level on a three-tier scale), warning that cold and unstable air masses will bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong wind, and hail over most of mainland Greece through Aug. 31. Locally heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely over central Macedonia, eastern Macedonia, Peloponnese, Central Greece, Epirus, Thessaly, Evia, and possibly Sporades Aug. 30, over Thessaly, the Sporades, and Evia early Aug. 31, and over the Peloponnese, Sterea including Attica, Epirus, and Macedonia the afternoon of Aug. 31. As of early Aug. 30, officials have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:

• Orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Thessaly Region.

• Yellow heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings: Ionian Islands 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.