Greece is currently grappling with severe winter weather as the cold wave named Coral blankets the nation with record-low temperatures and snow. Communities across the country are feeling the impact, with the cold front resulting in significant disruptions and safety warnings.
The wave, which commenced on February 22, 2025, has already marked its significance as the coldest day of the year, according to reports from meteo.gr. On this day, temperatures were reported to have dropped as low as -12 degrees Celsius, particularly in northern and mountainous areas, with wider regions experiencing minima between -6 to 8 degrees Celsius during the daytime.
According to the Greek National Meteorological Service (EMY), the intense cold wave is anticipated to persist until at least Monday, February 24. The service noted, "The intense cold wave will continue to affect the country and the wider region until Monday," emphasizing the widespread nature of this winter event.
This weather pattern has brought about light snowfall across various regions, with reports indicating snowflakes reaching suburban areas of Athens—a rare occurrence. Snow has been particularly noticeable across Magnesia and Evia, with the colder temperatures forcing local authorities to act swiftly to keep roads clear.
Indeed, the cold snap is not just about freezing temperatures; significant snowfall has led to changes and disruptions to transport services. The Odontotos Railway announced temporary suspensions on the Diakopto-Kalavryta line for the weekend of February 22-23, halting key services due to severe weather conditions. Passengers are advised to check local stations and contact the service hotline for updates.
The adverse weather is affecting local life drastically; many Greek citizens are taking precautions against the chill, and after-school activities have been curtailed as parents keep children indoors. Even with the chill, some thrill-seekers find themselves taking the opportunity to enjoy winter sports, especially where slopes remain accessible.
Currently, meteorological forecasts suggest temperatures will remain significantly lower than averages for this time of year, especially across eastern and northern regions. Thessaloniki, for example, is expecting temperatures ranging from -6 to 5 degrees Celsius, contributing to heightened concerns about frost and its impact on local infrastructure.
Overall, these frigid conditions have come as somewhat of a surprise to many, considering the mild winter Greece has experienced previously. Local networks are making every effort to inform residents about the expected weather conditions and to provide thorough guides on how to remain safe and warm during this cold spell.
Weather updates and safety advisories continue to be broadcast regularly as the full impact of the cold front continues to set in. Residents are advised to monitor updates closely, as conditions can change rapidly, and local authorities remain vigilant against the risks associated with severe winter weather.
Despite the hardships posed by the cold wave, community spirit remains strong, with many locals helping one another to combat the effects of the weather. Notably, shops are seeing brisk business as families stock up on essentials, and suggestions for winter warm-up strategies are circulating via social media.
Though the wave may disrupt everyday life, it also draws attention to Greece’s resilience and adaptability. Residents and authorities alike are tasked with managing the immediate effects of Coral, all the time preparing for its eventual fade. While short-term disruptions plague transportation and daily activities, anticipation for stabilization continues to build, with many eying the predicted warming trend as soon as the cold front passes.
The nation watches and waits, prepared for volatility yet hopeful for the return to milder conditions and the easing of daily trials brought on by the chill. With attentive monitoring and community cooperation, Greece's approach to tackling the challenges of winter chronicled by the cold wave Coral stands as both practical and enduring.