Greece’s weather is undergoing a dramatic shift, with a cold north wind and a massive anticyclone setting the stage for significant changes through Christmas.
According to meteorologist Yannis Kallianos, today’s forecast calls for local rains of short duration in specific regions, while much of the country will enjoy extended sunny intervals.
Today’s Rain Hotspots
Friday will see localised showers in parts of southern Halkidiki, the Sporades, Evia, central-eastern Sterea, the eastern Peloponnese, northern Crete, and possibly the northern Cyclades, though the likelihood there is minimal. The rest of Greece is expected to bask in prolonged sunshine.
- Temperatures:
- Northern Greece: 10-13°C
- Central and southern mainland: 12-18°C
- Ionian Islands: 18°C
- Aegean Islands: 13-18°C
- Wind Conditions:
- Maritime areas will experience north winds, especially in the Aegean, at 5-6 Beaufort.
Attica and Thessaloniki Weather
- Athens (Attica): Weak local rain in northeastern areas, temperatures from 9-17°C, and mild winds of 3-4 Beaufort in coastal zones.
- Thessaloniki: Limited clouds with possible light showers in southern Halkidiki, long sunny intervals, and temperatures ranging from 6-12°C. Winds will reach 4-5 Beaufort in Thermaikos.
Weekend Weather: Cold Front and P-Type Weather
Meteorologist Kallianos has warned of a “north current” weather pattern that will bring sharp temperature drops and snow to mountain ridges, including Penteli and Parnitha in Attica.
- Saturday: Mild weather for much of Greece, with showers in the west and north.
- Sunday: A “P-type” weather scenario will bring localized showers to western and northern areas, as well as islands in the eastern Aegean. A further temperature drop will make Monday particularly wintry, with snow expected in higher altitudes of Crete.
Looking Ahead: The Giant Anticyclone
By Christmas, a colossal anticyclone forming over Europe is expected to reach Greece, bringing alternating rain, storms, and cold spells. While this system may temporarily stabilize weather in some areas, it is forecasted to intensify, creating wet and stormy conditions lasting through the holiday period.
Detailed Forecast
- Saturday: Rain and thunderstorms will dominate western areas, with snow in the mountains of Epirus and Macedonia. Temperatures will peak at 16-18°C in southern Greece but stay cooler in the north (10-12°C).
- Sunday: Continued rain in the west and Aegean islands, with occasional storms in the Dodecanese. Northern mountains will see snowfall, while winds shift northwestward, reaching up to 6 Beaufort in the Aegean.
As Greece braces for a volatile weather period, residents are urged to prepare for colder temperatures, especially in mountainous regions, and sporadic rain and storms across the country. This dynamic weather system is expected to persist, reshaping the climate through the festive season.