Storm Byron triggers flood warnings in Greece's Thessaly as rivers overflow

Residents in the village of Ypereia, located in the Thessaly region of Greece, have been urged to evacuate following the overflow of a nearby river after heavy rainfall caused by Storm Byron, which is expected to subside on December 6.

According to Greek media, civil protection authorities issued a 112 emergency alert, directing villagers to relocate to Farsala, located 15 km away, due to the River Enipeas breaching its banks. Meanwhile, the Pinios River also overflowed at Valomandri on Friday evening, causing further concern.

The severe weather brought by Storm Byron is forecast to affect parts of Greece until midday Saturday. Meteorologists report that the system is gradually weakening, a trend reflected in a recent bulletin from the National Meteorological Service (EMY), which downgraded the red alert to an orange warning.

Despite the easing of conditions, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to continue in several regions. Intense phenomena are anticipated in Central Macedonia, including Pieria, Imathia, and Halkidiki, as well as in the coastal and maritime zones of Eastern Macedonia, and across Thessaly. Crete, the Eastern Aegean, and the Dodecanese are also expected to experience unsettled weather until midday.

Elsewhere, the weather will remain unstable, with intermittent showers and isolated storms likely along western coastal areas. Light snowfall may occur in northern mountainous regions.

Wind conditions are expected to vary, with northwesterly winds of force 3–5 dominating in the west and south-southeasterly winds of force 4–5 in the east, gradually weakening as the storm system moves out.

Temperatures will remain close to seasonal averages, with highs of 14–16°C in northern mainland areas, 17–18°C in most other regions, and up to 19°C locally. The warmest conditions are forecast for Crete, the Cyclades, and the Dodecanese, where temperatures may reach 19–20°C.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents in flood-prone areas to follow official guidance and evacuation orders.

By Tamilla Hasanova