A sharp shift to winter-like weather is expected across Greece, with rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall forecast to affect much of the country in the coming days.
Meteorologists warn that Thursday will mark the peak of the deterioration, as temperatures drop significantly and unstable conditions spread nationwide.
Rain and storms across most regions
Rain is expected in nearly all parts of Greece, with the heaviest rainfall forecast in southern regions, while northern Greece and parts of the eastern Aegean are expected to see lighter precipitation.
Thunderstorms are likely in the southern Ionian Sea, western mainland Greece, the Peloponnese and Crete.
At the same time, African dust concentrations will remain elevated in the atmosphere, contributing to reduced air clarity and, in combination with rain, increasing the likelihood of muddy precipitation.
Snowfall in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas
Snow is expected in mountainous areas across the mainland, with heavier snowfall forecast in southern regions.
By Thursday night into early Friday, snow may extend to semi-mountainous areas in central and southern Greece, particularly above 700 meters (about 2,300 feet) in regions such as central Greece and the Peloponnese.
Temperatures drop sharply
Temperatures will fall across most of the country, with daytime highs reaching 12–14°C (54–57°F) in mainland areas.
Warmer conditions will persist in southeastern regions, including Crete and the Dodecanese islands, where temperatures could reach 18–19°C (64–66°F).
Strong winds across seas
Winds will blow from the east and northeast, reaching 6–7 Beaufort in the Ionian Sea and becoming gale-force in the Aegean, where gusts could reach 7–8 Beaufort, particularly in the northern Aegean.
Conditions in major cities
In Athens, cloudy skies with light to moderate rain are expected throughout the day and into the night, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C (46–55°F). Light snowfall is also possible on nearby mountains such as Mount Parnitha.
In Thessaloniki, dense cloud cover is forecast, with light rain expected later in the day. Temperatures will range between 7°C and 13°C (45–55°F).
Unsettled weather to continue
The unstable weather pattern is expected to continue through the weekend and into early next week.
- Friday: Continued cloud cover with local rain in eastern and southern regions, along with thunderstorms in Crete and the Dodecanese. Snow will persist in mountainous areas.
- Saturday: Intermittent clouds and localized rain, mainly in coastal areas of eastern and southern Greece, with possible isolated storms.
- Sunday: Ongoing instability with scattered rain and showers, particularly in eastern and southern regions.
- Monday: Similar conditions, with local rain and possible storms in the Ionian Sea, while snowfall continues in mountainous areas of central and northern Greece.
Authorities are urging residents and travelers to exercise caution, particularly in areas affected by strong winds, snowfall and reduced visibility due to dust.
