Severe Weather Thursday–Friday: Thunderstorms and Lightning Expected Even in Attica

Greece is shifting from intense heat to unstable weather conditions, as meteorologist Klearchos Marousakis warns of severe storms, lightning, and sudden downpours across large parts of the country this Thursday and Friday.

According to Marousakis, the shift will be driven by a cold air mass moving south from the northern Balkans, which will clash with the hot air near the surface that built up during recent high temperatures. This collision is expected to trigger atmospheric instability, bringing thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds, primarily across central and northern mainland Greece, as well as the northern and northwestern Aegean.

Storms to Intensify During Afternoon Hours

“The phenomena will mainly develop over land during midday and afternoon hours,” Marousakis noted, “while coastal and marine areas may experience storms early in the morning or overnight.” Despite their short duration, these storms may be accompanied by:

• Heavy localized rainfall, capable of causing flash flooding,
• Frequent lightning strikes,
• Hailstorms,
• Sudden wind gusts during storm activity.

Worsening Conditions on Friday – Attica Also at Risk

On Friday, the unstable weather is forecast to move eastward, affecting central, eastern, and northern Greece, and potentially reaching northern Crete.

Attica, including the Athens metropolitan area, is not expected to be spared. According to forecasts, local thunderstorms and strong winds are possible during the afternoon hours on both Thursday and Friday.

From Heatwave to Instability and Northern Winds

In a social media post titled “From Heatwave to Instability and Northern Winds,” Marousakis noted that temperatures have already begun to drop, with a more noticeable decline expected from Thursday onward. At the same time, northerly winds over the Aegean Sea are expected to strengthen, reaching up to 7 Beaufort in some areas.

Unstable Weather May Persist Until Mid-August

Looking further ahead, a northward shift in high atmospheric pressure systems over Europe may allow further weather disturbances to reach Greece, potentially prolonging the unstable conditions until August 12–15. As a result, the likelihood of a new prolonged heatwave remains low for now.

Residents and travelers across Greece are advised to remain alert, especially during afternoon hours when storm activity is expected to peak. Authorities recommend monitoring official forecasts and avoiding risky outdoor activities during intense weather events. Source: pagenews.gr