Weather system «Sophia» to bring ultra low temperatures after the lull

According to the National Observatory of Athens (NOA) weather service meteo the new bout of bad weather will continue to affect the country until Saturday, with below-freezing temperatures in many parts of central and northern Greece.

Most of the country, with the exception of the islands in the Aegean, will see a brief improvement in the weather on Wednesday as ‘Raphael’ withdraws eastward but the oncoming weather system “Sophia” will reach the Ionian Sea and the northwest late on Wednesday night, bringing rain and snow to Epirus, Macedonia, Thessaly and then Central Greece during the course of the night.

Very low temperatures may lead to thick snow at even low altitudes and gale-force winds at sea, with snow forecast to be thickest in Evia, Central Macedonia, eastern Thessaly, east and central mainland Greece and in the city of Thessaloniki on Thursday.

Meteo urges motorists to avoid driving in difficult conditions and poor roads, keep a safe distance between moving vehicles and to stay in their car if this is immobilised for any reason, running the engine for 10 minutes each hour and ensuring the exhaust pipe remains clear of snow.

It also advised the public to take precautions against water pipes freezing, especially pipes to solar water heaters, turning off the solar heater’s water supply and emptying the water tank, especially at night.

For those going outdoors, meteo recommends heading to a safe location that is not exposed to the storm, wearing several layers of light and warm clothing rather than one or two thick items of clothing, as well as wearing warm, waterproof boots and outerwear.

Those moving by car should use snow chains and inform someone of the route they intend to follow, while those moving about the city are advised to use public transport.

Source: ANA