Why is the weather in Greece deteriorating?
The deterioration of weather conditions in Greece is driven by a significant meteorological shift starting on the morning of Tuesday, September 22, 2026. This transition is characterized by the arrival of heavy rain and localized thunderstorms that are expected to persist through the early hours of Wednesday, September 23. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) has identified the Northwest Aegean as a particularly high-risk area, issuing an orange alert due to the intensity of the anticipated phenomena.
According to the EMY forecast, the most severe weather will be concentrated in several key areas. The intensity of the rainfall and the frequency of lightning strikes are expected to be highest in the following regions:
- Thessaly: Specifically the coastal and maritime areas of Magnesia.
- Sporades: Expecting intermittent heavy rainfall from the early morning hours.
- Chalkidiki: Storms are predicted from the morning until early afternoon.
- Euboea: Central and northern parts will experience weather instability starting in the morning.
These phenomena are not limited to rain alone; the EMY warns that the thunderstorms may be accompanied by localized hail, which could impact visibility and outdoor activities. While the intensity in these specific zones is expected to weaken gradually by Tuesday afternoon, the risk remains elevated through the night. The transition from the morning hours into the early hours of Wednesday suggests a prolonged period of instability for these coastal and maritime regions.
How will the temperature drop affect different regions?
A notable drop in temperature is accompanying the arrival of the storm systems, particularly affecting the northern and central parts of the country. This cooling effect is a direct result of the increased cloud cover and the influx of different air masses associated with the storm front. The shift marks a departure from previous warmth, bringing more autumnal conditions to the Greek landscape.
The temperature variations across Greece for Tuesday, September 22, are substantial. Based on data from both EMY and Meteo, the expected ranges are as follows:
| Region | Temperature Range (°C) |
|---|---|
| Western Macedonia | 8°C to 23°C |
| Macedonia & Thrace | 9°C to 26°C |
| Epirus | 11°C to 27°C |
| Thessaly | 11°C to 27°C |
| Peloponnese & Central Greece | 12°C to 28-29°C |
| Crete | 11°C to 29°C |
| Ionian Islands | 19°C to 26°C |
| North/Northeast Aegean Islands | 15°C to 20-21°C |
| Other Aegean Islands | 15°C to 27-29°C |
In the northernmost parts of the country, temperatures are expected to hover around 25 to 26°C, whereas the rest of the country will see values between 27 and 29°C. Even in the warmer southern reaches, such as the Dodecanese, temperatures are unlikely to exceed 30°C due to the prevailing weather conditions. This widespread cooling is expected to be most felt in the central and northern sectors.
Impact of thermal shifts on local climates
The rapid transition from summer-like warmth to these cooler, stormier conditions can create significant local microclimate shifts. In mountainous regions like Western Macedonia, the low of 8°C represents a sharp contrast to the daytime highs, necessitating caution for travelers and residents alike. Such wide diurnal temperature ranges can impact local ecosystems and require residents to adapt quickly to the changing thermal environment.
What is the impact of wind speeds and sea conditions?
Wind conditions are expected to be quite strong, particularly in the Aegean and Ionian seas, where gusts could reach 6 to 7 Beaufort. These northern winds are expected to be a dominant feature of the weather pattern throughout the day, though their intensity may fluctuate. The presence of these winds is a key component of the overall storm system affecting the maritime regions.
In the Aegean, the winds are forecasted to show a temporary weakening during the afternoon hours. However, meteorological models suggest a renewed strengthening of the winds starting from the evening hours. This cyclic pattern of wind intensity requires maritime operators to remain vigilant, especially in the Northwest Aegean where the storm activity is most concentrated. The evening resurgence of wind could pose challenges for coastal stability and maritime navigation.
In the Ionian Sea, winds will blow from northern directions with intensities reaching up to 7 Beaufort in certain local areas. This combination of high winds and heavy rain can lead to choppy sea conditions, potentially affecting ferry schedules and coastal safety in the regions of Thessaly and the Sporades. The interplay between the wind and the heavy rainfall creates a complex environment for anyone near the coast.
What is the weather forecast for Athens and Thessaloniki?
The major urban centers of Athens and Thessaloniki will experience different aspects of this weather system. While both will see cloud cover and rain, the timing and intensity vary between the two cities, meaning residents in the north and south will experience the storm's impact at different stages.
Athens Weather Details
In the Attica region, residents can expect cloud cover with rain and potential localized thunderstorms arriving during the afternoon hours. The winds in Athens will be relatively moderate compared to the islands, blowing from northern directions with intensities of 3 to 4 Beaufort, occasionally reaching 5 Beaufort in eastern parts. Temperatures in the capital are expected to range between 23°C and 26°C, with a further decline anticipated after the afternoon. This suggests that while the city may not face the same severity as the islands, the afternoon will bring a noticeable change in weather.
Thessaloniki Weather Details
Thessaloniki is expected to experience initial rainfall, though the forecast suggests a relatively quick improvement in conditions. Winds will be northern with intensities between 3 and 4 Beaufort. The temperature range for the city will be between 19°C and 25°C, making it notably cooler than the southern parts of the country. The rapid improvement mentioned in the forecast indicates that the storm front may move through the northern mainland more quickly than in the Aegean regions.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas are under the highest weather alert?
The highest alerts are focused on the Northwest Aegean, specifically the Sporades, the coastal areas of Magnesia in Thessaly, Chalkidiki, and the central and northern parts of Euboea. These areas face the risk of heavy rain, lightning, and possible hail.
When will the storm activity subside?
The most intense phenomena are expected to occur from Tuesday morning through the early hours of Wednesday, September 23. While some regions may see a gradual weakening of rain by Tuesday afternoon, the weather remains unstable into Wednesday morning.
Will there be hail during the storms?
Yes, there is a possibility of localized hail. This risk is particularly noted for the western, central, and northern mainland parts of Greece, as well as specific sections of Chalkidiki and the Northern Aegean.
How much will the temperature drop?
The temperature drop is significant, especially in northern and central Greece. Northern areas may see temperatures around 25-26°C, while some regions like Western Macedonia could see lows as low as 8°C.
What are the wind conditions like?
Winds will generally blow from northern directions. In the Aegean and Ionian seas, they can reach 6 to 7 Beaufort, though the Aegean may see a brief period of weakening in the afternoon before strengthening again at night.
