Schools across large parts of Greece will remain closed or operate on delayed schedules as severe winter weather brings snowfall, freezing temperatures, and icy conditions, local authorities announced.
Municipal officials ordered the closures as a precautionary measure, citing dangerous travel conditions caused by snow, frost, and strong winds. The disruptions affect multiple regions, particularly in northern and central Greece, where cold weather is expected to persist.
Several municipalities have suspended all school operations for the day, while others have closed specific levels of education, such as middle and high schools. In some areas, kindergartens and daycare centers will continue operating normally. Authorities said decisions were made locally based on weather conditions and road safety.
In other municipalities, schools will open later than usual, with start times delayed by one or two hours to avoid the most hazardous morning conditions. Officials said the delays aim to reduce the risk posed by icy roads and low temperatures, especially during early commuting hours.
Civil Protection services have been placed on heightened alert, particularly in central Greece, following an emergency weather bulletin issued by the national meteorological service. The forecast warns that snow, strong northerly winds, and a sharp drop in temperatures could affect mountainous, semi-mountainous, and low-lying areas through midday.
Snowfall was reported in higher elevations early in the morning, with weather conditions expected to gradually worsen at lower altitudes. Authorities also warned of frost forming during morning and evening hours, increasing the risk of traffic disruptions.
Local governments have deployed snow-clearing equipment and emergency crews and said they remain ready to intervene where needed.
