A 12-degree-celcius dive was noted early on Wednesday morning heralding a change to the weather. The next 72 hours are expected to bring a cold front with a ‘yellow’ alert according to the Greek Meteorological Service.

The cold weather front will begin in Northern Greece before covering the rest of the country with frost expected on New Year’s Eve and January 1 bringing an even colder spell.

The snow is expected to bring problems to Northern Greece from Saturday noon onwards. Problems to ferry boat transport are expected.

There could be snow in the Attica basin on Thursday or Friday morning in northern region, however the amount of snow will not be enough to cause problems.

Shelters

The Municipality of Athens has opened up a room and a municipal gym to shelter homeless people and vulnerable groups from the cold. The heated hall will open at 10 a.m. at Kolonos (cnr of Lenorman and 35 Alexandrias sts), whereas on Thursday, the covered municipal gym at Rouf (cnr of Pireos and 69 Ehelidon sts) will open its doors and remain open for as long as it is required.

Munciipal authorities and volunteer organizations will inform homeless people about the availability of these shelters.

The emergency telephone hotline is 1595 for info about shelters and protection from the extreme weather conditions.

Be prepared

Citizens are urged to:

– ensure that there are no loose objects that can cause injury and harm when blown by gale force winds.

– avoid walking under large trees, sign posts and areas where light objects may fall (eg. potplants, broken glass etc.)

In case of car transport, citizens should:

– be informed about the state of the road network

– have snow chains with them and a full gas tank

– travel only if necessary, through central streets, and avoid traveling at night

– inform others of the route they plan to follow when traveling by car

– avoid traveling in extreme weather conditions

– follow the directions of the traffic services, local authorities etc.

Pedestrians should:

– dress in many layers of clothing rather than heavy clothing and wear suitable shoes to avoid accidents

– avoid walking if unnecessary