By Marina Hatzichristodoulou
A shift in weather conditions is expected in the days leading up to Christmas, as a low-pressure system moves across the Mediterranean, according to meteorologist Tasos Ierodiakonou.
Speaking to 24news, Ierodiakonou explained that on Saturday, December 20, a low-pressure system that developed over North Africa had moved into the Mediterranean Sea, positioned south of Italy and Greece. This system has brought unstable weather to those regions. Ahead of it, warmer air has been flowing northward toward Cyprus, resulting in temperatures that are higher than seasonal averages. At the same time, colder air continues to dominate parts of western and northwestern Europe.
Conditions are expected to change on Sunday, December 21, as the low-pressure system tracks eastward and moves closer to the region. This shift is likely to bring periods of rain and isolated thunderstorms, mainly from midday into the afternoon hours. While warmer air remains present ahead of the system, its influence is expected to weaken as the low moves east, allowing cooler air to gradually play a larger role. Cold air will continue to affect western and northwestern Europe, with a milder impact extending into the Balkans and northern Greece.
Looking ahead to the Christmas period, Ierodiakonou noted that unsettled weather, including rainfall, is possible between December 21 and 23. However, from Christmas Eve onward, particularly from midday on December 24 through Christmas Day, conditions are expected to improve, with no significant rainfall currently forecast and generally mild temperatures prevailing.
Beyond Christmas, there is an increased chance of more unstable weather toward the end of the month. From around December 28 onward, further rain is possible, and colder conditions could bring snowfall to higher elevations, including the Troodos Mountains.
