Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Sept. 11

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Greece through at least Sept. 11. As of Sept. 9, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an orange level (the middle level on a three-tier scale) Emergency Bulletin of Dangerous Weather Phenomena, warning a low-pressure system named Atena will move eastward over the country late Sept. 9-late Sept. 11, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms mainly to central, northern, and western regions as well as eastern and northern Aegean Islands. Showers and storms are expected to impact western regions from late Sept. 9, north-central and northern regions from early Sept. 10, and northeastern mainland and eastern island regions from late Sept. 10. The most intense storms are likely in western regions early Sept. 10. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of Sept. 9, officials have issued orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings across Epirus, the Ionian Islands, West Macedonia, and West Sterea regions. Authorities will almost certainly 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. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the east coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.

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.