Unseasonably warm weather sweeps Greece and the Balkans

An unusually warm air mass is set to cover much of Europe in the coming days, bringing spring-like conditions in the heart of winter. The shift follows weeks of instability and persistent low-pressure systems, marking a dramatic change in the seasonal pattern.

Meteorologists attribute the temperature surge to the development of a strong “heat dome” in the upper atmosphere, which is driving temperatures well above normal for this time of year.

Forecast data indicate that from midweek onward, temperatures across large parts of the Balkans could rise 12 to 15 degrees Celsius above seasonal averages. The warm spell will gradually spread across Greece, with western, southern and mainland areas experiencing the most noticeable increase.

Spring-like conditions across Greece

In Greece, maximum temperatures are expected to climb steadily, peaking later this week. In northern regions, including areas around Xanthi, temperatures in lowland areas could reach 17 to 19°C.

Sunshine will dominate, with limited cloud cover and minimal chances of rainfall. Winds are forecast to remain generally light to moderate, reinforcing the mild and pleasant conditions.

Balkans also feel the heat

Similar weather patterns are expected across the Balkans, including Serbia, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Albania and Romania. In several areas, temperatures are projected to reach 18 to 22°C, with even higher readings possible in the southern Balkans.

The rapid warming is also expected to accelerate snowmelt in mountainous regions, raising localized concerns about flooding near rivers and highland areas.

How long will it last?

Forecasters say the spring-like interlude is likely to persist through the end of the week and into the first days of March. After that, current projections suggest the heat dome will weaken, allowing more unsettled weather to return, including a possible drop in temperatures and renewed rainfall.

Until then, Greece and its neighbors are set to experience a striking—if temporary—preview of spring.