After an Indian summer with t-shirt weather during winter, the weather is due to change in Greece with extreme weather conditions expected around the country. After a brief thunderstorm on Wednesday followed by morning sunshine, it’s a turn back to winter again from Friday onwards, according to the National Meteorological Service of Greece.
Rain and southerly winds kick off on Friday with wind velocity reaching 8 Beaufort, while northern and western parts of the country will experience snowfall (8-17 degrees Centigrade in mountainous areas). Heavy rainful in the eastern parts of the country will see temperatures ranging from 9-18 degrees centigrade and rain over the Aegean and Crete from 13 to 21 degrees Centigrade.
In Athens, it will be a rainy day and weekend with temperatures at 11 to 18 degrees centigrade and the same for Thessaloniki from 10 to 15 degrees centigrade.
What to watch out for:
Advice from the General Secretariat of Citizens Protection
* Secure objects that may be pushed around by extreme winds as these may cause damage and injury.
* Ensure that drains work properly and aren’t clogged.
* Avoid crossing over flooded areas or streams either as pedestrians or with cars even after the rain stops.
* Avoid working outdoors or taking part in sea sports at coastal areas while there are extreme weather conditions.
* Find cover when there is a hale storm and only leave the shelter when the storm has stopped. Hale storms could also be dangerous for animals.
* Avoid passing under large trees, sign posts or areas where there are balconies with potplants, etc. or anywhere where loose objects can fall.
* Diligently follow directions of traffic police and other officials.
Drivers warnings in cases of snow or frost
* Be aware of the road conditions following extreme weather.
* Have tyre chains available and a full fuel tank.
* Travel only when necessary and during the day, prefering central roads.
* Ensure people are informed of your whereabouts and the route you will take.
* Follow directions of officials
For pedestrians:
* Wear lots of layers of clothing instead of just one item of heavy clothes and make sure that shoes are sensible to prevent falls.
* Avoid undue travel during times when there are extreme weather conditions.
