Snowstorms have caused transport chaos around the Greek capital Athens, with one overnight traffic jam stretching for up to 15 kilometres. Ferry services were disrupted and there were power cuts in some parts of the capital and on the islands, prompting some schools to close. The sudden wintry weather struck late yesterday as many people were returning from a long weekend. Reports say a national highway in Athens and roads in the city's northern suburbs were closed overnight. An area of low pressure situated across eastern parts of the Mediterranean is bringing in gale force winds with sustained speeds of 64km/h and gusts of up to 128km/h. Extensive warnings for coastal flooding have been issued, and the strong north-easterly winds will also significantly lower temperatures. The cold weather is expected to last into tomorrow, with night-time temperatures in Athens dipping just below zero. Greeks have been warned to make only absolutely necessary journeys.