Greece Battles Harsh Weather: Snowstorms, Freezing Temperatures, and Strong Winds Disrupt Daily Life

Greece is grappling with severe weather conditions as snow, freezing temperatures, and strong winds sweep across the country.

The cold front has blanketed much of northern Greece in snow, while heavy rainfall and strong gusts have caused significant disruptions in regions like Attica and Kitries, Messinia. Authorities have issued warnings and taken measures to protect citizens and manage the impact.

National Weather Service (EMY) Forecast

According to the National Weather Service (EMY), today’s weather is marked by:

• Low Temperatures: Frost will persist, especially in northern Greece, for the next three days. A gradual improvement is expected starting tomorrow, particularly in the east and south.
• Snowfall: Snow is falling even at low altitudes, with heavy snow expected in mountainous and high-altitude areas of Thessaly, Central Greece, and the Peloponnese.
• Rain and Thunderstorms: Intense rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast in the Ionian Sea, parts of the Aegean, Central Greece, and the Peloponnese.
• Strong Winds: Gusty winds, reaching 8-9 Beaufort in the Aegean and 7-8 Beaufort in the Ionian, are causing further disruptions.

Areas Requiring Anti-Slip Chains

Drivers in several regions are required to use anti-slip chains due to icy and snow-covered roads. Restrictions on heavy vehicles remain in place across parts of the national and provincial road networks.

School Closures

The extreme weather has led to school closures in numerous areas, including:

• Thessaloniki municipalities of Volvi, Lagadas, and Oraiokastro.
• Kilkis, Naoussa, Edessa, Florina, Trikala, Karditsa, and Lamia.

Civil Protection Alerts

Authorities have issued a high alert, especially for the Peloponnese, Cyclades, and Crete, where severe rain and thunderstorms are anticipated. Citizens are urged to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines issued by the Civil Protection Department.

Key Recommendations:

1. Secure Outdoor Items: Prevent objects from being carried away by winds.
2. Prepare Residences: Ensure gutters and drains are clear.
3. Avoid Flooded Areas: Steer clear of streams and torrents during and after storms.
4. Exercise Caution Outdoors: Avoid unnecessary travel and stay clear of trees, signs, and other potentially hazardous areas.
5. Snow Precautions: If traveling, equip vehicles with anti-slip chains, maintain a full fuel tank, and stay informed about road conditions.

Stay Updated

For real-time updates, citizens are encouraged to monitor weather reports from EMY at www.emy.gr, and check road conditions on the Hellenic Police website at www.astynomia.gr. Additional safety information is available at the Ministry of Climate Crisis & Civil Protection website: www.civilprotection.gov.gr.

As Greece braces for another day of challenging weather, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The cold front, while disruptive, is expected to ease gradually in the coming days.