A fast-moving but powerful storm system is expected to hit Greece on Tuesday, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms and gale-force winds, with local flooding and overflows possible in vulnerable areas, according to forecasts cited in local media.

The system, a low-pressure front forming over the Adriatic Sea, is forecast to move east and cross northern Greece within 24 to 36 hours. While total rainfall may not be extreme, storms could dump large amounts of water in a short time, increasing the risk of flash floods, stream overflows and landslides, especially where soils are already saturated.

Forecasters say the most intense weather is expected in the Ionian Islands, Epirus, western mainland areas, the Peloponnese and Crete, as well as Thrace, the northeastern Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese and the southeastern Cyclades. Winds in the Ionian and southern Aegean could reach 8 to 9 on the Beaufort scale. Temperatures are forecast to range from about 46°F (8°C) in the north to 64°F (18°C) in eastern mainland areas and islands.

The severe weather follows an episode of African dust that blanketed Athens on Sunday, creating hazy skies and poor air quality. Changing winds are expected to push the dust away from the capital toward Crete, the Cyclades and islands in the eastern Aegean.

Pulmonologist Alexandra Koutsochera told MEGA that vulnerable groups — including children, the elderly, people with asthma or chronic lung disease and those with heart conditions — face higher health risks from dust exposure. Possible symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, eye irritation and fatigue.

In Heraklion, authorities canceled a local carnival parade due to weather conditions and elevated dust levels. As a precaution, the municipality also ordered the closure of nurseries and all schools for one day, following public health guidance. Officials said they are monitoring the situation and will issue updates.

Looking ahead, unsettled weather is expected to continue Wednesday, mainly in eastern and island areas, before gradually weakening. Strong northerly winds are forecast in the Aegean. On Thursday, forecasters expect scattered rain in western areas and isolated thunderstorms in the northwest later in the day, with a slight rise in temperatures.