Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Nov. 13

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Greece through at least Nov. 13. As of Nov. 11, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an orange Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin, warning that heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across western Greece Nov. 11-13. Strong winds gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Further showers and storms are also possible in other parts of the country over the coming days. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

Officials have issued the following weather warnings across the country Nov. 11-12:

Nov. 11

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): East Peloponnese, Epirus, and the Ionian Islands regions.

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: East and West Peloponnese, Epirus, the Ionian Islands, and West Sterea regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Thessaly, Thrace, and West Peloponnese regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: West Sterea Region.

Nov. 12

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings: The Cyclades Islands, East Peloponnese, Epirus, and the Ionian Islands regions.

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: The Cyclades Islands, East and West Peloponnese, Eprius, the Ionian Islands, and West Setrea regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Attica, Crete, East and West Macedonia, and West Peloponnese regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Attica, Crete, and Thessaly 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 in coastal regions 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.