Heavy rain and thunderstorms to hit parts of Greece
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to affect parts of Greece from Friday night, with locally intense rainfall and possible hailstorms forecast in several regions through Sunday.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service issued an emergency weather deterioration bulletin on Friday, warning of locally heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Weather system to spread across regions
The weather is expected to deteriorate first in northwestern Greece on Friday evening, with Corfu, Epirus and western Central Greece among the areas expected to be affected.
On Saturday, heavy weather will move to the remaining Ionian islands from the early hours until midday. The Peloponnese and Kythira are expected to see locally heavy rain and thunderstorms from midday through the evening, particularly in Messinia, the Sparta area and eastern Arcadia.
Evia is forecast to be affected from the early hours until midday on Sunday.
Emergency services on alert
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has urged residents and visitors to take precautions against flooding, lightning, strong winds and hail.
Authorities have informed regional and local governments to maintain heightened readiness, while the Fire Brigade has activated its operational plan for responding to flooding and other severe-weather incidents.
Residents are advised to secure loose objects, clear gutters and drains and avoid crossing rivers, streams and torrents during heavy rain and for several hours afterward.
People should also avoid outdoor activities, particularly at sea and in coastal areas, during thunderstorms.
Safety measures during thunderstorms
People caught outdoors should seek shelter in a building or vehicle. They should avoid tall trees, electricity pylons, power lines, fences, metal objects and low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding.
During hailstorms, people should immediately seek shelter and remain indoors or inside a vehicle until the storm passes.
Drivers are advised to avoid flooded roads and, during intense lightning, pull over away from trees and remain inside the vehicle with the windows closed.
At home, residents should avoid using corded electrical appliances and telephones during intense lightning activity and stay away from plumbing pipes.
Authorities also advise people to follow instructions issued by local authorities and the Traffic Police.
The latest weather developments are available through the Hellenic National Meteorological Service. Information on road conditions and flooding-related accessibility is provided by the Hellenic Police, while the General Secretariat for Civil Protection publishes further severe-weather safety guidance.
