A sharp deterioration in weather conditions is expected starting Friday, bringing intense rainfall, thunderstorms, squalls, and localized hail. Following a brief heatwave, Greece is now facing a powerful cold front that will trigger widespread severe weather across much of the country.
Red Alert Issued for 11 Regions
The National Meteorological Service (EMY) has updated its emergency weather bulletin, placing 11 regions under red alert—the highest level—for dangerous meteorological phenomena. The most severely affected areas include Larissa, Magnesia, the Sporades islands, Evia, Central Macedonia, and Phthiotis. Thunderstorms are also forecast for Attica, with particular concern for coastal and maritime zones.
Detailed Forecast Timeline
Friday, 24 July:
• Central Macedonia (Pieria, Imathia, Chalkidiki, Thessaloniki): From late morning until late evening — orange alert.
• Eastern Thessaly (Larissa, Magnesia): From noon until late night — orange alert; coastal and marine areas under red alert.
• Sporades and Evia (central and northern parts): From noon — red alert.
• Eastern Central Greece, including Attica: From afternoon until late evening — orange alert.
• Northeastern Aegean islands (Lemnos, Thasos, Samothrace): From late evening — orange alert.
Saturday, 25 July:
• Sporades: Until early morning — red alert.
• Evia (central and northern parts): Until late morning — red alert.
• Northeastern Aegean islands (Lemnos, Thasos, Samothrace): Until early morning — orange alert.
• Magnesia (eastern coastal and marine areas): Until early hours — orange alert.
The emergency bulletin—originally issued on 23 July at 11:00 a.m.—remains in effect. It warns of heavy rain, frequent lightning, strong localized winds (including squalls), and possible hail across most of Greece through Saturday’s midday.
Gradual Improvement Expected
From Saturday afternoon onward, conditions are expected to gradually improve. However, strong northerly winds will persist. By Sunday, temperatures are projected to return to seasonal norms.
Emergency Response Activated
In response to EMY’s emergency bulletin and following a risk assessment meeting by the National Committee for Risk Evaluation, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection has activated emergency mobilization protocols across the affected regions.