Greece is experiencing unprecedented weather extremes, as 2024 is on track to become the hottest year on record for the country, surpassing even the scorching temperatures of 2023. This alarming trend reflects the severe impacts of climate change, with significant repercussions for ecosystems and daily life.
According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS), Greece faced severe weather conditions just days before the New Year's celebration. Heavy rainfall, snow, and gale-force winds impacted various regions including the Cyclades, Aegean islands, and northern areas of Crete. Remarkably, even central Athens saw snow, as temperatures dropped to 5°C during the morning hours.
On Saturday, widespread rainfall and storms caused severe disruptions, particularly across the Cyclades and eastern Aegean. Snowfall levels reached alarming heights on mountainous regions such as Evia and northern Crete. Warnings were issued by the General Secretariat of Civil Protection, advising citizens to remain vigilant during these severe weather events. Precautionary measures included securing loose objects and avoiding unnecessary travel during storms.
Looking forward, the HNMS hints at improved weather conditions by New Year's Eve, with forecasts predicting clear skies and milder temperatures across much of Greece. HNMS Director Thodoris Kolidas explained the progression of the weather system, detailing its four phases leading to the current state. The agency assured citizens to remain informed about the weather's evolution to celebrate the New Year safely.
Simultaneously, as 2024 approaches its end, preliminary data reveals it's likely to be the warmest year recorded, showcasing the deepening influence of climate change. Kostas Lagouvardos, research director at the National Observatory of Athens, noted, "Although the year has not ended and we have not processed all the data, with the information available so far, it is very likely 2024 will be the warmest year in our country." By mid-December, 78% of the year’s days reflected above-average temperatures, with some locales experiencing deviations of nearly 4 degrees Celsius higher than normal.
Throughout the year, Greece endured its hottest winter and summer on record. For example, June saw temperatures soaring 3.8°C above average, and July recorded 2.9°C above its normal range. The relentless heat was punctuated by remarkable instances such as October’s temperatures climbing over 32°C and the infamous 16-day heatwave during July, where nighttime lows remained above 27°C in urban areas.
Lagouvardos emphasized the troubling trends, stating, "The average maximum winter temperature in Greece has increased by 1.8°C from 1960 to 2024. The corresponding trend for June reaches 2.5°C." These historical changes signify alarming shifts, pointing to the pressing need for climate action as projected trends from the Copernicus Climate Change Service exacerbate global warming issues.
The various extreme weather events Greece has faced this year—marked by heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and stark temperature fluctuations—have disrupted the lifestyle and safety of its inhabitants. With authorities emphasizing safety protocols during severe weather warnings, citizens are forced to adapt rapidly to changing climatic conditions.
Several recommendations were issued to promote safety during adverse weather, including not traveling during heavy rainfall and dressing appropriately for cold and icy conditions. Authorities highlighted the need for constant readiness and mindfulness of the potentially hazardous environments created by these weather extremes.
With authorities calling for adherence to guidelines, the urgency to address climate change has never been more apparent. Lagouvardos warned about the insistent patterns connected to climate change reshaping not just Greece’s geography but the world at large. "What we are witnessing is not just local but global change," he stated, underscoring the importance of cohesive climate action.
With 2024 standing as grim evidence of climate challenges, Greece’s experiences vividly demonstrate the pressures faced worldwide. The nation’s need for proactive strategies and responses to weather extremes has become increasingly urgent, illuminating the broader stakes involved for every region grappling with climate change.