Greece is bracing for two waves of severe weather starting early Saturday and continuing into Monday, but meteorologists say that the Athens Marathon on Sunday, November 9, will take place under generally clear and dry conditions.
According to meteorologist Georgios Tsatrafyllias, while much of western and northern Greece will be hit by heavy rain and thunderstorms, Attica—where the marathon takes place—will be spared. “Runners will have the weather on their side,” he noted, adding that no rain is expected during the race.
Two Storm Systems Moving In From Italy
Tsatrafyllias explained that two organized low-pressure systems from Italy will affect Greece over the weekend:
- The first will reach the country early Saturday, bringing intense rainfall and storms to western regions.
- The second, expected Sunday through Monday, will again impact western and northern Greece, with prolonged rainfall and the risk of localized flooding in already saturated areas.
The southerly winds accompanying these systems will reach 6–7 Beaufort, carrying dust from North Africa toward southern Greece.
However, temperatures will remain stable, ranging between 17°C and 22°C across most areas, slightly higher in southern islands.
Flood Risk in Western Greece
Forecasters warn that soils in western Greece may become oversaturated due to continuous rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable regions. Residents are advised to remain alert and follow weather updates from authorities.
Friday Forecast: Mild and Cloudy
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) reports cloudy skies and scattered showers across much of the country on Friday, November 7. Rain will intensify later in the day over the Ionian Islands and parts of Epirus and western Peloponnese, with isolated thunderstorms overnight.
- Athens: Partly cloudy with light southern winds and temperatures from 13°C to 21°C.
- Thessaloniki: Cloudy with occasional light rain, temperatures from 9°C to 19°C.
- Crete and the Aegean Islands: Some early showers, clearing later in the day.
Visibility will be limited by fog in inland areas during the morning and evening hours.
A Marathon Uninterrupted
Despite the approaching storms, weather experts confirm that the 42nd Athens Authentic Marathon will go ahead without disruption. With calm skies and mild temperatures expected on Sunday morning, both athletes and spectators can look forward to ideal race conditions along the historic route from Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium.
