17 Mar 2023 | 04:12 AM UTC
Greece: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 18 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across much of Greece through at least March 18. Possible disruptions to transport, business, and utilities.
Event
Severe weather is forecast nationwide through at least March 18. As of early March 17, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued an orange level (the middle level on a three-tier scale) Emergency Deterioration of Weather Bulletin, warning of a temporary deterioration in weather conditions across much of the country through March 18. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms will likely be accompanied by lightning, strong winds, and hail. The adverse weather over Crete, central and eastern Sterea, and Thessaly is forecast to weaken early March 18, while the severe weather is forecast to weaken over Evia, Cyclades, Dodecanese, eastern and southern Peloponnese, and Sporades the afternoon of March 18.
As of early March 17, authorities have issued the following weather warnings across Greece:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Attica, Central Greece, Crete, Peloponnese, South Aegean, and Thessaly regions.
Yellow thunderstorms warnings: northern and eastern Greece.
Authorities will almost certainly issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
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 located 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.
Transport
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. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
