Flooding in Chania and Mesara, devastation on Mykonos and Paros.
Emergency Warning for Crete
Authorities in Crete have recently activated the emergency service number 112 to alert residents and visitors of severe weather conditions affecting the island. The alert follows increased heightened readiness from the Civil Protection Authorities in response to ongoing storms and heavy rainfall that began early in the morning.
Heavy downpours have led to significant flooding in various areas, transforming roads into torrents and making travel difficult for vehicles. The warning highlights the expected duration of these storms, which are set to last until Wednesday morning, particularly impacting the western and southern parts of Crete.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and stay updated through official channels as conditions develop.
Severe flooding in Chania
Issues with Flights
Heavy rainfall has disrupted flights at Chania Airport.
Morning flights operated by Aegean and Sky Express from Athens were redirected back to Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. Meanwhile, a Ryanair flight from Paphos was diverted to Heraklion.
Consequently, several departures were cancelled due to the severe weather conditions affecting the region.
Chania Hospital
Chania Hospital faced significant challenges as its entrance was flooded. The Fire Service had to intervene to assist with the situation.
The flooding created hazardous conditions for drivers on the main road networks in the area, prompting warnings for increased caution among those travelling.
Closure of the River Crossings in Mesara
Heavy storms have been affecting the Heraklion region. Due to persistent rainfall, the Civil Protection of the Municipality of Faistos (Phaistos) suspended operations at the river crossings from 7:30 am on Monday. The crossings known as “Three Stars,” “Periou,” and “Agia Triada” will remain closed until further notice.
Local authorities in Crete have released warning announcements urging citizens to exercise caution. The announcements contain important recommendations for public safety during these extreme weather conditions.
Recommended Safety Tips:
- Avoid Unnecessary Travel: It is best to refrain from travelling unless absolutely essential, as road conditions can be hazardous.
- Stay Informed: Citizens are advised to keep up to date with local news and weather reports for the latest information and updates regarding road closures and safety advisories.
- Use Alternative Routes: If travel is necessary, consider using alternative routes that are confirmed to be safe and operational.
- Emergency Kit: It is wise for residents to prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials such as food, water, flashlights, and a first aid kit.
The ongoing heavy rainfall has created challenging conditions across the region, and the local government is taking all necessary precautions to protect the public.
Citizens should heed all warnings and take appropriate measures to stay safe during this time.
The impact of these storms is not only limited to closures but may also lead to flooding in low-lying areas.
Emergency services are on high alert, and residents are encouraged to report any dangerous conditions, such as fallen trees or blocked roads, to the local authorities.
Alert from the Civil Protection Service of Faistos Municipality Regarding Upcoming Severe Weather
The Civil Protection Service of Faistos Municipality has issued a public notice regarding an approaching weather event. According to meteorological forecasts, this weather system is expected to reach Crete in the early hours of Tuesday, 1 April, and will persist for approximately the next two days.
Weather Forecast
The National Meteorological Service has released maps and projections indicating that heavy rainfall is anticipated, particularly affecting the western and southern regions of Crete.
Key Recommendations for Residents
Due to the expected severe weather conditions, the Civil Protection Service has emphasised the importance of taking appropriate precautions. It urges local farmers and beekeepers to prepare and safeguard their livestock and hives accordingly.
Important Safety Advice
- Travel Precautions: Residents are warned about the potential slipperiness of road surfaces during this period. It is crucial for individuals to exercise extra caution while travelling.
- Monitoring Updates: All citizens should stay informed about the latest updates and instructions from local authorities concerning the weather situation.
Duration and Intensity of Weather Events
Meteorologists predict that the region will experience prolonged rain and intense thunderstorms, which will primarily affect the western and southern parts of Crete from the evening of Tuesday (1 April 2025) through to the morning of Wednesday (2 April 2025).
The Civil Protection Service continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide additional guidance as needed.
Additional Safety Measures
In response to these forecasts, the municipality has executed several precautionary measures, including:
- Emergency Preparedness: Local officials have prepped for quick responses in case of emergencies arising from flooding or landslides.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Information is being disseminated across various channels to ensure residents are fully aware of the developing situation.
- Resource Distribution: Essential resources are on standby, ready to be deployed efficiently if required.
Continued Vigilance by Authorities
Local authorities remain vigilant and have coordinated with various agencies to ensure all necessary actions are implemented promptly.
The Civil Protection Service reaffirms its commitment to protecting both lives and property and encourages citizens to adhere to all safety guidelines during this period of adverse weather conditions.
Summary of Weather Expectations
- Event Start: Early hours of 1 April 2025
- Areas Affected: Western and southern Crete
- Duration: Two days
- Conditions: Heavy rainfall and strong thunderstorms
By sharing this information, the Civil Protection Service aims to enhance community awareness and preparedness. The call for cooperation among residents is a critical part of mitigating any potential impacts from this weather event.
It is essential for individuals to remain cautious, informed, and responsive to evolving conditions.
Readiness of Civil Protection Services in Malevizi
The Civil Protection services in Malevizi are currently on high alert due to a recent forecast issued by the National Meteorological Service. This announcement predicts worsening weather conditions until the early hours of Wednesday.
In light of this information, the authorities have taken proactive steps to ensure the safety of the residents.
According to the latest weather report, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across Crete. This forecast has prompted the municipality to issue guidance for the public.
Important Advisories for Residents
The municipality of Malevizi has provided the following recommendations:
-
Avoid Crossing Flooded Areas: Residents are advised against crossing river crossings, either on foot or by vehicle. These areas can be hazardous, even if water levels appear low.
-
Limit Travel: Individuals should keep their trips to essential outings only during the forecasted severe weather. This helps reduce the risk of accidents and allows emergency services to operate more efficiently.
-
Move Hazardous Items: Residents should remove objects and vehicles from areas that could be affected by flooding. Certain main roads, such as those in Palaiokastro, Agia Pelagia, and Ligaria, could experience swift water movement.
Protective Measures During Severe Weather
To further ensure the safety of the public, guidelines for dealing with severe weather events can be found through the Civil Protection authority. These measures outline how to prepare homes and stay safe amidst adverse conditions.
Key Recommendations
-
Remove objects and vehicles from areas where they could be washed away by the water in the event of flooding (main roads of Paleokastro, Agia Pelagia and Ligaria, Ammoudara).
-
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest weather updates and warnings. This ensures that individuals are aware of changing conditions.
-
Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items such as water, non-perishable food, batteries, a flashlight, and important documents. This kit can be vital in case of extended power outages or emergencies.
-
Secure Property: Make necessary arrangements to secure property. This may involve clearing drains and gutters to prevent blockages or securing outdoor furniture that could be blown away by strong winds.
-
Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of emergency numbers. This includes local authorities, medical services, and family members.
-
Follow Official Instructions: Always adhere to directives given by local authorities. These guidelines are designed to protect the community during serious weather events.
Unprecedented Scenes in the Cyclades and Eastern Aegean from the Severe Weather
Paros:
Massive flooding cause by extreme rains in Naousa of Paros, Greece pic.twitter.com/GNaif8KG2M
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) March 31, 2025
A significant storm struck the Greek islands of Paros and Mykonos, resulting in severe flooding and widespread disruption.
Authorities took immediate action by closing schools and prohibiting all traffic, except for emergency vehicles.
Heavy rainfall caused floodwaters to inundate the central areas of Paros, particularly in the towns of Parikia and Naousa, where streets transformed into swift rivers carrying debris and vehicles.
Emergency services rescued 13 individuals trapped by the floods and transported them safely to their homes, with no reports of injuries or missing persons.
Although Mykonos experienced less severe flooding, machinery was deployed to clear routes as water rushed past beachfront establishments.
Schools on Paros, Mykonos, and two additional nearby islands were ordered to remain closed, while messages were sent to residents advising them to stay indoors.
Municipal teams and outside contractors are actively removing road blockages caused by fallen rocks.
The Cyclades region continues to face severe weather alerts, affecting other islands in close proximity.
Authorities are working tirelessly to restore normalcy to these popular holiday destinations. For more details, visit Paros, Mykonos close schools, ban traffic as severe storms cause destruction.
Mykonos:
#BREAKING #GREECE #MYKONOS #GRECIA
GREECE : ISLANDS IN THE CYCLADES, INCLUDING PAROS SYROS AND MYKONOS, HIT BY HEAVY RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS ON MONDAY
A red alert warning is issued.
Scenes from MYKONOS#Ultimahora #Flooding #Inundación #Inondation #Πλημμύρα #Μύκονος pic.twitter.com/XtDOSSKchr
— LW World News (@LoveWorld_Peopl) March 31, 2025