Strong Winds Disrupt Thessaloniki, Road Closures and Travel Advisories Issued

Thessaloniki and the wider Central Macedonia region experienced significant disruption on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, due to strong northwesterly winds. Authorities responded to over 30 calls regarding fallen trees and displaced objects within the city limits, and travel advisories have been issued urging caution.

Road Closures and Transportation Impacts

A major road connecting the Philippion hotel with the Countryside was closed at approximately 9:30 PM on Tuesday night after a large tree was uprooted by the wind. The road remains closed while crews perform to clear the branches. Strong winds caused seawater to surge ashore at Novel Epivates and Agia Triada, flooding the beach road.

Weather Forecast and Ongoing Risks

The National Weather Service forecasts that the strong winds, reaching up to 9 Beaufort, will persist throughout the evening. Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel. A noticeable temperature drop is also being experienced across Northern Greece.

Municipality of Thessaloniki Recommendations

The Municipality of Thessaloniki has issued the following recommendations for residents:

• Secure tents, houses, and shops, and ensure loose objects are fastened down to prevent them from being carried away by the wind.
• Securely attach any billboards.
• Ensure doors and windows are securely closed.
• Avoid activities in marine and coastal areas.
• Avoid walking under large trees, signs, or areas where objects could fall (e.g., under balconies).

Wednesday’s Weather Outlook

Wednesday is expected to bring sunshine with few clouds in Thessaloniki. Temperatures will range from 4 to 11 degrees Celsius. Winds in Thermaikos will be moderate to strong, blowing from the northwest at 5-6 Beaufort, potentially becoming almost stormy at 7 Beaufort in the morning (with gusts up to 90-100 km/h), before gradually weakening.

Similar conditions are forecast for other regions, including local rains or storms in Thrace, the Eastern Aegean islands, Dodecanese, and Crete. Snowfall is predicted in the mountains of Thrace. Winds in the Aegean will be strong to almost gale force, with gusts up to 90-100 km/h in some areas, gradually weakening. The Ionian and Corinthian Gulfs will also experience strong to almost gale force winds.