Greece is bracing for two successive waves of bad weather between Friday and Monday, with meteorologists warning of intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds affecting most regions of the country.
According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), the first front will move eastward from the Ionian Sea and western mainland on Friday, while a second, stronger system is expected to arrive from the Gulf of Sirte on Sunday, bringing fresh storms to eastern parts of the country.
Heavy Rainfall in the West
Meteorologist Giorgos Tsatrafilias warned that the Ionian Islands and western Greece — including Corfu, Paxoi, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Thesprotia and Preveza — will experience particularly heavy rain through Friday afternoon, with up to 80 tonnes of water per hectare expected in some areas.
Residents are urged to exercise caution as the downpours could lead to localized flooding and travel disruptions.
The first weather front will weaken gradually over the weekend, before the next wave strikes late Sunday.
Second Front to Affect Eastern and Southern Greece
The second weather system, expected between Sunday night and Monday evening, will mainly affect western Greece and the eastern islands, with large volumes of rain expected in Thessaly, the Sporades, Euboea, Boeotia and Attica — including Athens.
Although no severe thunderstorms are currently forecast for the capital, meteorologists advise caution due to heavy localized showers.
Regional Forecasts
- Ionian Islands & Western Greece: Cloudy with frequent rain and isolated storms, locally strong in the Ionian Sea. Winds from the south-southeast up to 8 Beaufort, easing by evening. Temperatures 14–23°C.
- Attica (Athens region): Cloudy skies with scattered rain from midday Sunday. Light variable winds turning southeast at 3–4 Beaufort. Temperatures 13–23°C.
- Thessaloniki & Northern Greece: Increased cloud cover and light rain or showers. Temperatures 14–20°C.
- Central & Eastern Greece: Periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in Thessaly and Euboea. Temperatures up to 23°C.
- Aegean Islands & Crete: Mostly cloudy with occasional rain, temperatures around 24–25°C.
Weekend Outlook
On Saturday, conditions will remain unsettled in the Ionian Islands and northern mainland, with intermittent rain and isolated storms. Winds will shift direction throughout the day, while temperatures will rise slightly, reaching 25–26°C in southern Greece.
By Sunday, rain will spread again across western, central and southern Greece, intensifying through the afternoon and evening. EMY forecasts a small temperature drop in northern regions as the system moves eastward.
