Weather Reversal in Greece: Heavy Storms, Strong Winds and Sharp Temperature Drop

Stormy Weather Heading to Greece

A dramatic and wintry weather system is expected to hit Greece over the next few days, bringing a series of climatic changes including heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong southerly winds. According to meteorological data, a series of barometric lows originating in the Iberian Peninsula are moving toward the country, initially affecting western regions before shifting eastward.

The most severe deterioration is expected on Friday. The hardest-hit areas will include the northern Ionian Sea, Epirus, and western Sterea Ellada, which are forecast to receive the main volume of water. Meanwhile, southern winds will intensify rapidly, reaching up to 8 Beaufort in the Aegean, contributing to a peak in African dust transport that will blanket western Greece, the Cyclades, and Crete.

Eastward Shift and Changing Winds

By Saturday, the front of heavy rain and storms will change course and move eastward. The focus will shift to eastern Macedonia, Thrace, and the islands of the eastern and northeastern Aegean, where conditions are expected to become particularly intense during the evening hours. At the same time, winds will begin shifting to northerly directions, gradually clearing the atmosphere from the African dust.

Despite the heavy rainfall, temperatures will remain unusually high for the season until Saturday, with maximum values on Friday ranging between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius, and locally up to 26–27 degrees in parts of the Aegean and Crete. However, the real reversal arrives on Sunday.

Dramatic Weekend Temperature Drop

Sunday brings a major shift as northerly winds introduce colder air masses, causing a sharp and noticeable drop in temperatures, particularly affecting northern Greece. In the north, maximum temperatures will not exceed 9 to 13 degrees Celsius, and in mountainous areas, the mercury may drop to -1 degree. Central Greece will see temperatures reach 13 to 19 degrees, while the west and south will remain slightly milder at 16 to 22 degrees. This cooler weather is expected to last through at least Tuesday.

FAQ

Are strong storms expected in Athens this week? The stormy system will primarily hit the western and northern parts of Greece first, but its eastward movement may bring adverse weather to other regions as well.

When is the significant temperature drop expected? The sharp drop in temperatures will be felt starting Sunday, as colder air masses lower the thermometer in the northern part of the country to wintry levels.

Where can I check updates on maritime transport disruptions due to winds? It is recommended to check with local ferry companies and Greek port authorities prior to travel, as winds reaching up to 8 Beaufort may cause adjustments to ferry schedules.