WINTER STORMS AND SWELLS

1. Weather Characteristics:
   • Winter in Corfu is characterized by heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds, particularly during November to February.
   • The storms are often driven by low-pressure systems that affect the western coasts of Greece.
2. Impact:
   • High winds can cause power outages and disrupt ferry and boat services connecting Corfu to the mainland.
   • Flooding is common in low-lying areas, particularly near rivers and coastal regions.
3. Thunderstorms:
   • Corfu frequently experiences thunderstorms during winter, often accompanied by hail and lightning.
   • These can cause damage to infrastructure, trees, and buildings.

Waves and Sea Conditions

1. Wave Heights:
   • During storms, waves can reach significant heights, especially on the western and northern coasts.
   • Gale-force winds often result in rough seas and strong currents.
2. Affected Areas:
   • The west-facing beaches, such as Glyfada and Agios Gordios, tend to bear the brunt of high waves.
   • The Old Port area and other exposed coastal locations may experience wave surges.
3. Sea Activities:
   • Winter storms make sea travel and fishing challenging and, at times, dangerous.
   • Popular beaches and coves, usually calm in summer, can become inaccessible due to stormy conditions.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors

1. Monitor Weather Updates:
   • Keep track of weather forecasts, particularly marine weather reports.
   • Local authorities or apps like Windy and Meteo.gr provide reliable updates.
2. Avoid Coastal Areas:
   • During storms, stay away from cliffs, beaches, and promenades to avoid large waves or debris.
3. Emergency Preparations:
   • If staying near the coast, secure outdoor furniture and items that might be displaced by high winds.

Wave Conditions for Surfing

1. Winter Swells:
   • The Ionian Sea receives strong westerly and northwesterly swells during winter storms.
   • Wave heights can range from 1.5 to 3 meters (5 to 10 feet) during peak storm periods, particularly after prolonged windy conditions.
2. Consistency:
   • Winter offers the most consistent wave action, with storms generating powerful and well-formed waves on exposed beaches.
   • The best conditions occur when storms ease, and offshore winds clean up the surf.
3. Wave Quality:
   • The waves can be powerful and choppy during storms but become smoother with offshore breezes.
   • Point breaks and reef breaks are rare, so most surfing happens on beach breaks.

Best Surfing Spots

1. Glyfada Beach:
   • Located on the western coast, Glyfada is one of Corfu’s most exposed beaches, receiving consistent winter swells.
   • The sandy bottom creates fun and rideable beach break waves.
2. Agios Gordios:
   • This west-facing beach is another excellent spot for larger swells, with dramatic scenery and consistent waves during winter storms.
3. Halikounas Beach:
   • A long, open stretch of sand on Corfu’s southwestern coast, known for its windy conditions and suitable for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but also catches storm-driven surf.
4. Agios Stefanos

---

Conditions to Consider

1. Wind Direction:
   • Offshore winds (blowing from land to sea) help clean up waves for better surf conditions. Check forecasts for favorable wind directions.
2. Weather and Temperature:
   • Winter water temperatures range from 14–17°C (57–63°F), so a good-quality wetsuit (4/3mm or 5/4mm) is essential.
   • Air temperatures can be cold, especially with wind chill.
3. Tides:
   • Corfu’s tidal range is minimal, so tides have less impact on surf conditions compared to other destinations.
4. Experience Level:
   • Winter waves can be powerful and challenging, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
   • Beginners should avoid stormy days and stick to smaller swells.

---

Practical Tips for Surfing in Corfu

1. Gear Rental:
   • Surfboards and wetsuits are not widely available for rent on the island, so bring your own gear.
   • Some kitesurfing and windsurfing schools may offer limited equipment.
2. Safety First:
   • Storm waves can be unpredictable, and riptides are common during rough seas. Surf with a buddy or in view of others.
   • Be cautious of submerged rocks and beach debris washed up by storms.
3. Best Time to Surf:
   • Post-storm periods with clear skies and diminishing winds offer the best surf conditions.

---

While Corfu might not rival surfing meccas like Portugal or the Canary Islands, its winter waves provide an exciting and less crowded alternative for those looking to ride some Ionian swells.

---