See videos and photos – The severe weather system is currently affecting multiple areas – Dangerous phenomena expected until the evening – The highest rainfall recorded in Agios Stefanos

Heavy rains and storms have affected the country since this morning. The “bad weather express” has already impacted northern Attica, Macedonia, parts of Central Greece, and Samothraki.

Flooding has occurred in many areas, and dry lightning has caused fires, prompting immediate response from the Fire Department. Over 400 lightning strikes were recorded in Attica, primarily in the northern and eastern suburbs, within two hours, according to Kostas Lagouvardos, Research Director at the National Observatory of Athens/meteo.

Current Weather Conditions

At 15:00, light rain was observed in Porto Rafti, Pallini, Rafina, Koropi, and Spata in Attica. Earlier, heavy rains hit Dionysos, Agios Stefanos, and Spata. Rain was also reported in Thebes, Neo Palamas Fthiotidas, Amfikleia, and Tragana, with milder effects in Amfissa, Paleochori, Parnassos, and Tanagra. Elassona experienced heavy rain as well.

Rainfall in Agios Stefanos

Meteo.gr reported that the northern parts of the prefecture were most affected by the bad weather until early Thursday afternoon. The highest amount of rain was recorded at the Agios Stefanos station, reaching 53 millimeters. The evolution of the weather in Attica can be monitored in near real-time via the “Meteorological and Climate Observatory of Attica.”

Lightning Strikes

Numerous lightning strikes have been recorded in Attica, with the fire brigade responding to fires. The map shows lightning activity in northern and eastern Attica around 14:30, with new strikes marked in white and earlier ones in yellow. The 112 emergency alert system was activated at noon in Attica.

Fires Caused by Lightning

The Fire Service reported multiple fire outbreaks in the forest areas of Dionysos, Anixi, and Marathon due to intense lightning activity. Ground and aerial firefighting units were mobilized.

Meteorological Warnings

Meteorologist Giorgos Tsatrafillias warned citizens to remain cautious until 21:00, advising them to stay indoors or in cars to avoid lightning strikes. He emphasized that storms can strike up to 40 km away.

Emergency Measures

An emergency meeting of the Risk Assessment Committee was held yesterday, with the Civil Protection Coordinator emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding lightning on land and sea.

Weather Forecast

Rain and storms with frequent lightning and localized hail are expected until late Thursday afternoon. Heavy rains and storms are predicted for eastern Macedonia, parts of central Macedonia (especially Thessaloniki and Halkidiki prefectures), and the northeastern Aegean islands (north of Mytilene).

Watch videos of the storm in Ekali and the hailstorm in Agios Stefanos. A 112 alert has been issued for severe weather phenomena in Thessaloniki, Pieria, Halkidiki, and Kavala. In Lamia, the storm turned streets into torrents, necessitating water pumping from shops by the fire department.

Stay updated on the development of this severe weather system and take necessary precautions to stay safe.