Heavy Rain and Storms Paralyze Athens: Kifissos and City Center Flooded

Intense rainfall began Thursday afternoon (05.02.2026) across much of Attica, triggering localized disruptions and ongoing adverse weather conditions. While no major road incidents have been reported so far, authorities remain on high alert due to saturated ground in Athens. Meteorologist Theodoros Kolydas warned of short but intense rain bursts. According to meteo.gr and the National Observatory of Athens, this weather episode—classified as Category 3 (significant)—brings heavy rain, localized thunderstorms, strong to gale-force south winds, and elevated Saharan dust concentrations, increasing the risk of mudslides. Rain and storms started in western and northern areas before spreading nationwide; hail is possible in the Ionian Islands, western mainland, Peloponnese, Eastern Aegean islands, and Dodecanese. In Athens and Attica, intermittent rain and thunderstorms are expected mainly during midday and afternoon hours. Strong southerly winds affect the Aegean Sea, while dust models confirm high Saharan dust loads. Traffic congestion has already occurred, especially along the Kifissos ascent, Vasileos Konstantinou Avenue, and central Athens. Drivers are moving slowly across Piraeus port, Kifissias Avenue, Attiki Odos, and Mesogeion Avenue.