Storm Alexandros continues to lash Greece on Saturday

Greece remained in the grip of Storm Alexandros on Saturday, with the authorities advising the public to be wary of possible flooding, hail and lightning strikes as localised downpours continued, especially in central and eastern parts of the country.

According to an updated Severe Weather warning issued by the National Meteorological Service (EMY), the rain may be intense in the eastern Aegean and Dodecanese islands, and will last until Saturday night. Thessaly, the Sporades islands and Evia had strong rain earlier on Saturday, which is expected to subside as of the afternoon.

Several areas at higher altitudes have also seen snow, making snow chains or snow tyres necessary on the roads of Imathia and parts of Western Macedonia. There are also very strong north northeasterly winds of 8-9 Beaufort in the Aegean Sea, which are forecast to continue until late at night.

The areas that saw the biggest quantities of rain up until noon were on the island of Evia and the Sporades islands. The village of Steni on Evia recorded 99mm of rain, while Setta, also in Evia, had 88mm. Apart from these, most rain fell on Skopelos, Skyros, Zagora in Pilio and Skiathos.

Strong northerly winds blew over mainland Central Greece, Evia and the Aegean, with speeds exceeding 100 km/h in the Karystos area, and 90 km/h in Samothrace.

In areas where the phenomena are severe, local residents are advised to secure loose items that may cause injuries, ensure that their drains and gutters are in good working order, avoid crossing streams and torrents or working outdoors near coastal areas, to avoid lightning strikes.

Source: AMNA