The Scientific Committee for Risk Assessment, under the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Vassilis Kikilias, convened on Sunday, Jan. 12 to evaluate the latest meteorological data for today and Monday, Jan. 13. In light of the severe weather conditions, the committee decided that schools in Western Macedonia will remain closed on Monday, a ban on the circulation of heavy vehicles, and the mandatory use of snow chains.

According to reports, the measures proposed are as follows:
Ban on the circulation of heavy vehicles from Sunday Jan 12 at 6:00 pm until Monday, Jan 13 at 2:00 pm:
a) On the Egnatia Highway, from the Drososchoiri toll station to the Polymylos toll station.
b) From the Kalambaka junction of the E65 highway to the provincial road toward Panagia (E06) and from Grevena (E015) to the junctions of the Egnatia Highway.

Mandatory use of snow chains across the entire road network in the regions of Epirus, Western Macedonia, Central Macedonia, Eastern Macedonia,Thrace and Western Thessaly.

Schools in Western Macedonia will remain closed on Monday Jan 13. The respective mayors in Eastern and Central Macedonia will decide on school closures on a case-by-case basis where necessary.

As reported the General Secretariat for Civil Protection has issued recommendations to citizens, urging them to be particularly cautious and to take self-protection measures against risks arising from severe weather events.

Specifically citizens are urged to take precautions which include securing objects that could be displaced by severe weather, potentially causing injuries, and ensuring that gutters and drains are not blocked and function properly.

People are further advised to avoid crossing torrents and streams, either on foot or by vehicle, during and for several hours after storms and rainfall.

Outdoor activities and work, as well as activities in marine and coastal areas, should also be avoided due to the risk of lightning strikes.

During hailstorms, immediate protection is recommended by seeking shelter until the storm has passed.
Finally, individuals are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities, such as traffic police.