Attica Schools Closed Wednesday as Severe Storm Approaches Greece
Athens, January 21 – Schools across the Attica region, including public and private primary and secondary schools and evening classes, will remain closed today, Wednesday, January 21, 2026. This decision comes as a severe cold front, bringing intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and gale-force winds, is set to impact the country in the coming hours.
The closure is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting students and staff from the heavy rainfall expected from midday onward. “Attica is under red alert. Considering weather forecasts and the Risk Assessment Committee’s recommendations, we decided to close schools tomorrow,” stated Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias. He emphasized that the primary concern is not the total rainfall but its intensity, and confirmed that lessons will be conducted online.
Emergency Weather Bulletin Issued
The National Meteorological Service has issued an emergency bulletin, warning of strong rain and thunderstorms in central and southern Greece. Locally heavy snow is anticipated in mountainous areas of Thessaly and Macedonia, while gale-force winds are expected in various parts of the country.
The storms are projected to intensify in eastern and southern Peloponnese, Attica, Evia, the Sporades, northern and eastern Aegean islands, and the Dodecanese through Thursday. The Attica region, encompassing Athens, is expected to be significantly affected by the storm this afternoon.
Disruptions to Ferry Services and Travel Warnings
In response to the severe weather, ferry services to and from the islands of Zakynthos and Kefallonia have been suspended due to strong winds. Additionally, the Rio-Antirrio ferry line remains closed, with only private cars and fully loaded trucks permitted to cross the bridge.
Snowfall is also expected in the mountains and semi-mountainous areas of the Peloponnese, Epirus, Central Greece, Thessaly, Macedonia, and Thrace. Western Macedonia and the regional units of Trikala, Karditsa, and Evrytania are predicted to experience particularly heavy snow.
Authorities have urged residents to take necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary travel during this period of adverse weather conditions.
Online Learning Implemented
With schools closed, educational activities for students in Attica will transition to an online format. This measure ensures that learning can continue without compromising the safety of students and educators.
The situation is being closely monitored by authorities, who will provide further updates as the storm progresses. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to all safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
This severe weather event follows a series of similar incidents across Greece, highlighting the increasing need for robust preparedness and response mechanisms to protect communities from natural hazards.
Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1292866/schools-in-attica-to-close-wednesday-ahead-of-severe-storm/
