Severe weather has hit Greece, bringing heavy rain, snow, and strong winds over the past 24 hours. However, the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) forecasts a gradual improvement, promising clearer skies as New Year’s Eve approaches.
Widespread Weather Effects
On Saturday, intense rains and storms impacted the Cyclades, eastern Aegean islands, northern Crete, and the Dodecanese, while mountainous regions like Evia, the northern Cyclades, and Crete experienced heavy snowfall. Gale-force winds across the Aegean reached up to 9 Beaufort but started to diminish by evening.
In Attica, snow was observed in Parnitha, Kalamos, and Malakasa, and even central Athens saw brief flurries as temperatures dropped to 5°C in the morning.
Forecast for Sunday
Eastern Thessaly, the Sporades, eastern Central Greece, parts of the Peloponnese, Crete, and the Dodecanese are expected to see localized rain or sleet, with possible isolated storms along coastal areas. Winds are predicted to ease throughout the day.
New Year’s Forecast
Significant weather improvement is expected by New Year’s Eve with clear skies and milder temperatures across much of Greece. Some frost may form in the northwestern mainland during early mornings, but overall, a more stable weather pattern is on the horizon as the New Year unfolds.
Weather System Progression
The current weather system unfolded as follows:
- Friday Night: Severe weather initiated in eastern Macedonia, Thrace, and the southern Aegean.
- Saturday Morning: Peak snowfall in Evia and nationwide heavy rainfall.
- Saturday Afternoon: Conditions eased in Attica, moving towards the Cyclades, Crete, and the eastern Aegean.
- Saturday Evening: Further weakening left isolated impacts in the Cyclades, Crete, and the Dodecanese.
The HNMS expects weather stabilization from Monday onwards, with gradually increasing temperatures as the New Year approaches.
Safety Recommendations from Civil Protection
The General Secretariat of Civil Protection has provided safety recommendations for severe weather:
- Secure loose objects to prevent wind damage.
- Avoid outdoor activities during storms.
- Use snow chains in affected areas, as advised by the Hellenic Traffic Police.
For regions expecting snowfall, citizens should:
- Travel only if necessary, using main roads.
- Wear warm layers and appropriate footwear to prevent falls on icy surfaces.
- Stay away from rivers, streams, and torrents during heavy rain.
Authorities stress the importance of following local guidelines and staying informed about weather updates to ensure safety and a seamless transition into the New Year.