Dealing with the air pollution problem on the island: health warnings, damage due to strong winds and Samaria Gorge closed again.
Weather Changes Bringing Rain and Storms
The weather on the island is acting up again. Localised rain showers and scattered thunderstorms are in the forecast.
Unstable air patterns are mixing with layers of Saharan dust. The sky looks dull, the air feels heavy—honestly, it’s not pleasant out there.
Meteorologists say this unstable weather could stick around for a few days. Sudden, short bursts of rain and storms might pop up in different spots.
Weather Element |
Expected Impact |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
Rain and Thunderstorms |
Localised, scattered |
Next few days |
Dust |
Persistent in the atmosphere |
Until mid-week |
Temperatures |
Remain high |
Throughout the period |
This combo—dust and rain—makes for poor visibility and can really mess with travel plans. Not great if you’ve got to be outside, either.
Yesterday there were again a few flight cancellations or diversions to Athens due to the strong winds.
Health and Safety Considerations
Air quality is a real issue right now, with dust particle levels way above normal. Measurements in several areas confirm it’s not just your imagination.
Sensitive groups, like people with breathing or heart problems, the elderly, and kids, should really stay indoors while the dust lingers. It’s just not worth the risk.
Some basic advice:
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
- Keep windows shut if you can.
- Masks help if you absolutely need to go out.
- Check local air quality updates—often.
Authorities are asking everyone to be extra careful and avoid unnecessary trips. If you have trouble breathing or any heart symptoms, don’t wait—get medical help right away.
Group at Risk |
Recommended Precautions |
|---|---|
Respiratory Patients |
Remain indoors, avoid dust exposure |
Elderly and Children |
Stay in well-ventilated, clean environments |
General Public |
Minimise outdoor activity during peak dust |
The dust should start to ease off by mid-week. Still, high temperatures are sticking around, so don’t expect a total break just yet.
Looks like we’re in for a stretch of dusty air and surprise showers. Not exactly ideal, but that’s the reality for now.
Samaria Gorge closed again
The Samaria Gorge is closed today because of the weather. OFYPEKA (The Organisation for the Protection of the Environment and Climate Change) confirmed the decision this morning.
Initially, the gorge was going to open, but updated forecasts forced a change of plans. Rainfall is now expected to be heavier than first thought.
They’re predicting around 8mm of rain at Xyloskalo and up to 16mm near Agia Roumeli between 7:00 and 19:00. Winds could reach 40 knots—definitely above the safety limits set by Crete’s regional authorities.
Because of all this, both entrances to the gorge are off-limits for the entire day.
Weather Forecast Details
Location |
Rainfall Expected |
Wind Speed Expected |
Time Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
Xyloskalo |
8mm |
Up to 40 knots |
07:00 – 19:00 |
Agia Roumeli |
16mm |
Up to 40 knots |
07:00 – 19:00 |
Visitor Safety and Regulations
Visitors need to stick to the National Park’s rules:
- Protect the natural environment.
- Follow all rules on entry, stay, and exit.
- Take responsibility for your own safety.
- Be aware of sudden weather changes—things shift fast.
- Obey any emergency restrictions, no exceptions.
- Listen to park staff or contractors if they give instructions.
The nowcasting app is handy for real-time warnings about sudden weather shifts. It gives users a heads-up when things turn dangerous.
- Yesterday, the plan was for the gorge to open as usual.
- Then, the forecasts changed—more rain, stronger winds.
- The closure was put in place to keep visitors safe.
- Both entrances will stay shut today.
Honestly, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Always check the latest conditions before heading out there.
Strong winds lift kiosk in Heraklion
Strong south winds hit Heraklion hard, especially around Archbishop Makarios Street. A former DEPTAH kiosk just couldn’t handle the gusts and actually got lifted off its base.
It caused a bit of a stir, but thankfully, no one was hurt. The whole scene just underscored how intense the weather got.
Authorities are staying alert in case anything similar happens again.
Key details:
Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
Location |
Archbishop Makarios Street, Heraklion |
Object affected |
Former kiosk of DEPTAH |
Cause |
Strong south winds |
Impact |
Kiosk lifted and moved from position |
Casualties |
None |
Response |
Authorities on high alert |
Events like this are a reminder—structures left unsecured can become real hazards in wild weather. Emergency services have shown they can respond quickly to keep people safe.
With the winds still blowing, anything loose is a potential risk. People should keep an eye out and use common sense when the weather’s acting up.
Strong winds lift parts of the swimming pool roof in Kounoupidiana
Over in Kounoupidiana, strong winds ripped parts of the indoor swimming pool roof loose. That’s a real danger for anyone walking or driving nearby—metal roofing pieces are getting torn off and tossed around.
A local said they saw sections of the roof flying off. The building’s in rough shape, neglected and vandalised, so it’s pretty vulnerable when weather like this hits.
The wind’s been strong enough to peel away sheets of metal, sending them flying in all directions. Not exactly what you want to see outside your window.
Here’s what’s at risk:
- People walking or riding near the pool could get hurt
- Vehicles might get damaged by falling roof parts
- The building itself could take even more damage
Risk Factor |
Description |
|---|---|
Pedestrian Safety |
Falling debris could cause injuries |
Vehicle Damage |
Metal pieces may dent or break glass |
Structural Deterioration |
Roof damage could worsen if not repaired |
The poor upkeep is a big part of why the roof’s so fragile. Vandalism hasn’t helped, and the weather’s just making the problems more obvious.
Authorities need to step in and fix this before someone gets hurt. Securing or repairing the roof should be a priority.
Until something’s done, the area isn’t safe. People living nearby are understandably worried and want action sooner rather than later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes dust to build up in Crete?
Most of the dust in Crete comes from strong winds picking up particles from dry areas—mainly the Sahara. Local dry soil and construction work add to the problem, too.
How do changing seasons influence dust levels in Crete?
Dust tends to spike in spring and early summer, when winds are stronger and the ground’s drier. When it does rain, even just a little, it helps settle dust back down.
What steps are taken to reduce dust pollution in Crete?
When it gets really dusty, people are told to stay inside. The authorities keep an eye on air quality and send out alerts. Planting more greenery and cutting down on dust-producing activities are some of the longer-term fixes.
How does Saharan dust affect the air quality in Crete?
Saharan dust can travel huge distances and mix into Crete’s air. It pushes up particle levels, making the air murky and sometimes causing health issues.
What health advice is given on days with high dust levels in Crete?
On dusty days, it’s best for kids, older folks, and anyone with breathing problems to stay indoors. If you have to go out, masks help, and air purifiers inside can make a difference.
Which parts of Crete experience the worst dust storms?
Coastal and low-lying areas usually get hit with higher dust levels. Winds just seem to sweep desert dust right into these spots.
Urban areas? They’re not exactly spared either, especially with all the construction and traffic stirring things up.
