Weekend snow threat from Athens to Istanbul

Mild weather the next several days across southeastern Europe will not last as a major blast of cold air is set to arrive by this weekend and bring the risk for snowfall with it.

The cold air and snow will come as a shock to many following a very mild February across the region.

High temperatures on Friday will climb to around 16 C (60 F) in Athens and struggle to reach 4 C (40 F) by Sunday.

While snow is likely to fall and accumulate in the mountains north and west of Athens, the city itself can expect rain on Saturday to mix with snow or even change to a period of snow Saturday night before a continued mix of rain and snow falls on Sunday.

In Istanbul, temperatures will hover near or slightly above 0 C (32 F) for much of the weekend, allowing any snow that falls to accumulate, especially in the higher terrain around the city.

On-and-off snow showers are expected throughout the weekend; however, the potential exists for a heavier band of snow from the Black Sea to set up over parts of the city and bring a quick couple centimeters (an inch) of snow and cause travel disruptions.

Snow will also be a risk in Burgas; however, the risk will be Friday night as cold air arrives and rain changes to snow. A few sea-effect snow showers will be possible throughout the weekend as well.