A red code for dangerous weather has been issued for several regions in Greece, local media reported, citing information from the country's civil protection service. The warning is in force for the regions of Attica, including the capital Athens, Peloponnese, Central Greece, Thessaly and Western Macedonia due to heavy rain, thunderstorms, as well as snowfall in the mountainous northern regions of the country, BTA reported.
The authorities declared increased readiness, and through the emergency warning system 112 messages were sent to the population in the affected areas, calling on citizens to limit their movement to emergencies and to strictly follow the instructions.
On some sections of the “Egnatia“ A temporary ban on the movement of heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tons and buses has been introduced.
In the region of Thessaly, problems with the power supply in settlements in the municipality of Argytea are reported.
In Western Greece, strong easterly winds of up to 11-12 points on the Beaufort scale caused material damage. The Rio-Antirio bridge remains closed to traffic, with dozens of heavy goods vehicles forced to remain in place. There are also reports of an overturned truck at a road junction near Patras, as well as fallen structures.
The fire department reported that since yesterday it has received dozens of reports of fallen trees and objects, as well as damage to vehicles. In a number of areas of the country, schools have been closed, and a temporary suspension of the educational process on university campuses has been announced.
Due to the adverse conditions, ships remain in ports, and all ferry lines from Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio to the islands in the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades and Crete have been canceled. By order of the Ministry of Interior, justified absences of civil servants have been allowed, and outdoor manual activities in the private sector have been suspended in a number of areas.
Meteorological services warn that the bad weather will continue at least until Thursday, with authorities urging citizens to monitor official announcements and follow the instructions of the civil protection services.