Where will the most intense weather phenomena occur?
The most severe weather impacts are concentrated in the eastern and southern parts of the country, where heavy rainfall and sporadic thunderstorms are expected. According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), the regions of Thessaly, the Sporades, Euboea, and the eastern parts of Central Greece—including Attica—are facing significant weather risks. Additionally, the islands of the Eastern Aegean and the Dodecanese are under threat of intense phenomena, including potential local hail.
The meteorological pattern indicates a widespread increase in cloud cover, with the most volatile conditions occurring in the following zones:
- Thessaly: Specifically targeting the Magnesia and Larisa prefectures.
- Aegean Islands: Including the Sporades, the Eastern Aegean islands, and the Dodecanese.
- Eastern Greece: Covering Euboea and parts of Central Greece (notably southern Phthiotis and Boeotia).
- Attica: Experiencing local rain and potential storm activity.
In addition to the rain, the mountainous regions in the central and western parts of Greece are expected to see snowfall, while wind speeds could reach up to 8 Beaufort, complicating maritime and land travel.
What are the specific EMY emergency warnings for Tuesday and Wednesday?
Emergency alerts have been categorized by color-coded severity, with orange and red warnings indicating high-risk conditions for several regions. On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, several areas are under orange alerts, meaning residents should prepare for intense local rain and thunderstorms.
Tuesday's Orange Alert Schedule
The orange warnings for Tuesday are distributed across different timeframes. The Sporades and Euboea are expected to face these conditions until midday and again during the evening hours. In Eastern Central Greece, particularly southern Phthiotis and Boeotia, the intensity is expected to increase from late evening. Attica will experience these conditions through the morning hours, while the Eastern Aegean islands face them briefly until the afternoon. The Dodecanese will see these phenomena starting from late afternoon, and Thessaly (Magnesia and Larisa) will experience them from the evening onwards.
Wednesday's Red and Orange Alerts
The weather situation is expected to escalate on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, with several regions moving into the red alert category, signifying extremely high risk. Thessaly (Magnesia and Larisa) and the Sporades and Euboea are both slated for red alerts, lasting until late Wednesday night. The Dodecanese islands are also under a red alert. Meanwhile, the Eastern Aegean islands and parts of Eastern Central Greece (Phthiotis and Boeotia) will remain under orange alerts, and Attica will face orange warnings until midday.
How will temperatures and wind speeds change across Greece?
A slight drop in temperature is expected across the country, particularly affecting the northern and eastern regions. According to Meteo data, temperatures will vary significantly depending on the geographical location, with colder air masses moving in from the north.
The following table provides a breakdown of the expected temperature ranges for Tuesday, October 27, 2026:
| Region | Temperature Range (°C) |
|---|---|
| Western Macedonia | 4°C to 13°C |
| Macedonia and Thrace | 7°C to 17°C |
| Thessaly | 8°C to 18°C |
| Epirus | 6°C to 18°C |
| Central Greece and Peloponnese | 10°C to 20°C |
| Ionian Islands | 10°C to 19°C |
| North and East Aegean Islands | 11°C to 17°C |
| Cyclades | 10°C to 19°C |
| Dodecanese and Crete | 13°C to 20°C |
Wind conditions will also be a significant factor. In the North Aegean, winds will blow from northern directions at 5 to 7 Beaufort, decreasing slightly to 4 to 6 Beaufort after midday. In the Central and South Aegean, winds will initially be variable at 3 to 5 Beaufort before turning northerly in the afternoon. The Ionian Sea will see northern winds of 3 to 5 Beaufort, increasing to 5 to 7 Beaufort by the afternoon. In Attica, northern winds of 3 to 5 Beaufort are expected, with a gradual weakening after the afternoon.
What are the specific conditions for major urban centers?
Major cities are seeing distinct weather patterns as the storm system moves through. In Athens, the weather will be characterized by cloud cover and local rain, primarily in the morning, with a possibility of further rain toward the evening. Temperatures in central Athens are projected to fluctuate between 13°C and 17°C. Winds in the capital will be northerly, ranging from 3 to 5 Beaufort, and are expected to weaken as the afternoon progresses.
Thessaloniki is also experiencing a shift in weather. Local cloud cover is expected to increase from the afternoon. Winds in the city will blow from the northwest at 2 to 4 Beaufort, occasionally reaching 5 Beaufort in the western parts. Temperatures in central Thessaloniki are forecasted to range from 9°C to 16°C.
When is the snowfall expected in the mountains?
Snowfall is forecasted for the higher elevations of the central and western mountainous regions. Specifically, in Thessaly, snow is expected to fall in areas with altitudes exceeding 1,300 to 1,500 meters toward the evening of Tuesday. This indicates that while much of the country deals with rain and wind, the higher mountain passes and peaks will experience winter-like conditions, potentially impacting high-altitude transport and visibility.
Key takeaways
- EMY has issued red alerts for Thessaly, the Sporades, Euboea, and the Dodecanese for Wednesday.
- Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential hail are expected in the eastern and southern regions.
- Temperatures in Western Macedonia will be as low as 4°C, while Crete may reach 20°C.
- Winds are expected to reach up to 8 Beaufort in certain areas of the country.
- Snowfall is predicted for Thessaly at altitudes above 1,300-1,500 meters.
FAQ: Bad weather in Greece
Which regions are under the highest risk?
The highest risk regions are Thessaly, the Sporades, Euboea, and the Dodecanese. These areas are expected to move into red alert status on Wednesday, October 28, indicating extremely severe weather conditions including heavy rain and strong winds.
Will there be snow in Greece?
Yes, snow is expected in the central and western mountainous regions. Specifically, in Thessaly, snowfall is forecasted for areas with altitudes between 1,300 and 1,500 meters during the evening of Tuesday, October 27.
What is the wind forecast for the islands?
Winds in the North Aegean will reach 5 to 7 Beaufort. In the Ionian islands, winds will increase from 3-5 Beaufort to 5-7 Beaufort after midday. The Aegean islands generally face northerly winds of varying intensity.
How will the weather affect Athens?
Athens will experience cloudy skies with local rain expected in the morning and potentially again in the evening. Temperatures will range between 13°C and 17°C, with northerly winds of 3 to 5 Beaufort that weaken in the afternoon.
What should I expect regarding temperature changes?
A general decrease in temperature is expected, particularly in northern and eastern Greece. While Western Macedonia could see lows of 4°C, southern areas like Crete and the Peloponnese will remain warmer, reaching up to 20°C.
Conclusion
The current weather pattern in Greece presents a significant meteorological challenge, with a transition from orange to red alerts across several key regions. As heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high winds move from the eastern Aegean through to Thessaly and the Sporades, residents and travelers should remain vigilant. The combination of potential hail, high wind speeds of up to 8 Beaufort, and mountain snowfall necessitates careful planning. Monitoring official updates from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) is essential as the storm intensifies through Wednesday, October 28.
