The National Observatory of Athens forecasts a significant temperature plunge of 5-6 degrees Celsius on Thursday across Greece.

A high-pressure system developing over the Balkans will strengthen northerly winds, particularly affecting the Aegean Sea and eastern mainland areas. Wind speeds will reach 6-7 Beaufort, possibly hitting 8 locally, with gusts exceeding 70-80 km/h Thursday through Friday.

Enhanced northerly winds will create a very high fire risk in parts of Attica, Viotia, northern and southern Evia, eastern Argolis, Lakonia, the Aegean islands and southern Crete.

These areas face high to very high difficulty controlling potential fires. The strengthened winds are forecast to persist through at least Saturday.