Thursday, July 31, 2025
After a prolonged period of intense heat, where temperatures exceeded 40°C in many areas of Greece, the country is now bracing for a dramatic change in weather. According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), severe storms, hail, and gusty winds are expected to affect northern and central Greece today. The changing weather conditions are likely to disrupt travel, outdoor activities, and daily routines.
This shift in weather is not confined to Greece alone. Neighboring countries such as Turkey, Bulgaria, and Albania are also experiencing similar shifts, making this a regional weather event with far-reaching effects. The storms moving across the Balkans are bringing a combination of rainfall, thunder, and cooler temperatures, providing some relief from the oppressive heat that has gripped the region.

Key Points of the Current Weather Conditions

• Greece: Severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds expected in northern and central Greece, including areas like Macedonia, Thessaly, and the Sporades. Temperatures will drop significantly to around 30-32°C.
• Turkey: Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara will experience thunderstorms and cooler temperatures, with some areas seeing temperatures drop to around 30°C.
• Bulgaria: Heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms are forecasted for Sofia and Plovdiv, with temperatures falling from 35°C to around 26-28°C.
• Albania: Stormy conditions will affect central and northern Albania, including Tirana, with temperatures dropping to 24-28°C.
• North Macedonia: Thunderstorms and rainfall expected, with winds up to 6 Beaufort and temperatures ranging from 28-30°C.

Detailed Forecast for Greece

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The weather in Greece is expected to change dramatically, especially in the northern and central parts of the country. Areas such as Macedonia, Thessaly, and the Sporades will experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, accompanied by the possibility of hail. The worst of the storms are anticipated to hit central and eastern Macedonia, with conditions beginning to improve by late evening in other regions such as western Macedonia, Epirus, and Thessaly.
In Attica, including Athens, conditions will remain relatively clear, but afternoon showers or isolated thunderstorms could develop in the mountainous areas. Winds will blow from the north at 4-6 Beaufort, with stronger gusts near the coast. The most significant change in the weather will be the drop in temperatures. After a week of sweltering heat, temperatures will fall to around 30-32°C in most regions, with highs of 33-34°C in certain parts of the mainland.

Weather Conditions in Neighboring Countries

Turkey:

As the storm system moves eastward, Turkey’s western regions are feeling the effects, particularly in cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. These cities will experience thunderstorms, gusty winds, and a significant drop in temperatures. The intense weather is expected to last throughout the day, with temperatures in Istanbul expected to fall to around 30°C. Other areas near the Aegean and Marmara regions may see brief rain showers, followed by clearing skies by Thursday.

Bulgaria:

In Bulgaria, the storm front has already moved in, causing disruptions in northern and western parts of the country. Sofia and Plovdiv are forecast to experience heavy rain and thunderstorms throughout the day, with winds picking up and temperatures dropping from the scorching 35°C to a more manageable 26-28°C. The worst of the storms are expected to subside by Thursday, giving way to more pleasant weather conditions.

Albania:

Albania is bracing for similar weather, with central and northern areas, including the capital Tirana, experiencing heavy rain and thunderstorms. This weather system will bring cooler air to the region, with temperatures dropping to around 24-28°C. The weather is expected to remain unsettled until Thursday afternoon when conditions will begin to clear, providing some relief. The storms are anticipated to be strong, with winds and rain continuing to affect local conditions.

North Macedonia:

North Macedonia is experiencing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially in the northern and eastern regions. The weather will be characterized by strong winds reaching up to 6 Beaufort and temperatures in the range of 28-30°C. By the evening, the storms should gradually ease, but the weather will remain unsettled until Thursday.

Travel Disruptions and Regional Impacts

The severe weather expected across Greece and its neighboring countries is likely to lead to widespread travel disruptions. Airlines operating in and out of major airports, such as Athens International Airport, Sofia Airport, and Istanbul Airport, may experience delays or cancellations due to poor visibility and stormy conditions. Local road travel, particularly in mountainous regions, may also be affected by flooding or landslides triggered by heavy rainfall.
It is crucial for travelers in these regions to stay informed about weather conditions and be prepared for delays. Authorities in affected countries are expected to issue further weather warnings as the storm system moves across the Balkans. Travelers should take extra precautions, particularly those planning to engage in outdoor activities.

What to Expect in the Coming Days

The storm system affecting Greece and neighboring countries will clear by Thursday morning. By Friday, conditions will improve significantly, with most of Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Albania experiencing sunny weather. However, brief afternoon showers may continue to affect some mountainous regions, particularly in mainland Greece, Crete, and Bulgaria.
Winds in the Aegean are expected to strengthen by Friday, reaching up to 7 Beaufort, which could impact sea travel. Temperatures will rise again, reaching between 31-35°C across the region, bringing back the heat after a brief respite.

Agricultural and Daily Life Impact

The heavy rainfall could benefit areas suffering from drought conditions, providing relief to farmers across the Balkans. However, the storms also pose a risk of flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in the mountains, which could affect crops and infrastructure. Farmers in regions with expected heavy rainfall are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their fields and livestock.

Travel Advisory Summary

• Greece: Wildfires in certain regions; major airports operational.
• Turkey: Wildfires in some areas; major tourist destinations unaffected.
• Bulgaria: Airport disruptions due to baggage policy enforcement; no severe weather warnings.
• Albania: Wildfires near tourist resorts; airport operations normal.

Conclusion

The severe weather sweeping across Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Albania highlights the dramatic effects of nature on daily life and travel in the region. With strong storms, hail, and cooler temperatures expected, both locals and travelers need to exercise caution. Staying updated on local weather reports and taking preventive measures for travel disruptions will ensure safety as the storm system passes through. The weather should improve by the end of the week, with sunnier skies and warmer temperatures returning to the region.

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Tags: Albania flight cancellations August 2025, August 2025 weather Balkans travel impact, Bulgaria travel disruptions August 2025, Severe storms Greece August 2025, Turkey weather disruptions August 2025

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