A week of unsettled weather is set to sweep across Greece starting Monday, bringing widespread rain, thunderstorms and mountain snow that threatens to dampen Thursday’s Tsiknopempti outdoor celebrations.
The National Meteorological Service issued a forecast warning of deteriorating conditions nationwide. Rain and cloud cover will initially hit western and northern regions before spreading to the rest of the country. Forecasters noted that Tsiknopempti (Feb. 12)—a day traditionally marked by outdoor grilling—may see scattered showers, complicating festivities.
Thunderstorms are expected to concentrate in coastal areas, while central and eastern Macedonia could face intensified weather from midday Monday. Snowfall is forecast for the mainland mountains, with flakes possible in the semi-mountainous areas of Thrace by nightfall.
Temperatures will drop significantly, with highs reaching just 12-14 degrees Celsius (53-57 F) in the north and peaking at 19 C (66 F) in the southern islands.
Winds are expected to strengthen to 7 on the Beaufort scale in northeastern Greece, blowing from the east. Additionally, meteorologists warned of reduced morning visibility and a transport of African dust affecting western and southern regions.