Newsflash from Tuesday, 13 January 2026:
Crete is experiencing a spell of severe winter weather that is expected to continue through Wednesday, bringing snowfall, bitter cold, and challenging conditions across large parts of the island. Authorities and residents alike are bracing for several more days of wintry conditions, particularly in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas.
Snowfall and Freezing Cold Across the Island
Over the past days, snow has fallen in higher elevations, covering mountain roads and rural areas in a thick white blanket. In some regions, snowfall has extended to lower altitudes, an unusual sight for the island that has disrupted daily life and transportation.
Temperatures have dropped sharply, with freezing conditions overnight and daytime highs remaining well below seasonal averages. Strong, cold winds are intensifying the chill, making conditions feel even harsher, especially in exposed areas.
Travel Difficulties and Local Disruptions
The winter weather has led to difficult driving conditions, particularly on mountain roads where snow and ice are present. In some areas, chains are necessary for vehicles, while authorities have advised motorists to avoid non-essential travel.
Schools in certain regions have adjusted schedules, and local services are operating under increased alert. Farmers and livestock owners are taking extra measures to protect crops and animals from frost damage, while municipalities are working to keep key road networks open.
Authorities on High Alert
Civil protection services remain on heightened readiness as the cold spell continues. Residents are being urged to:
– Limit unnecessary travel, especially in mountainous areas
– Use appropriate heating safely to avoid accidents
– Protect water pipes from freezing
– Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors
Emergency crews are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to intervene if conditions worsen.
When Will Conditions Improve?
According to current forecasts, severe winter conditions are expected to persist until Wednesday, after which temperatures may gradually begin to rise. However, cold mornings and localized frost could continue even after the main weather system weakens.
A Rare Winter Scene for Crete
While Crete is known for its mild Mediterranean climate, episodes like this highlight the island’s dramatic weather contrasts, especially during winter. Snow-covered landscapes have drawn attention on social media, but officials stress that safety should remain the top priority.
Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed through official announcements and local updates as the situation evolves.
Crete Hit by Extreme Weather: Record Rainfall, Powerful Wind Gusts and Unusual Temperatures
Crete is facing a wave of severe weather that has brought record-breaking rainfall, violent wind gusts and striking temperature contrasts across the island, placing the region at the center of Greece’s most intense weather activity.
Record Rainfall Across the Island
According to data from the National Observatory of Athens (meteo.gr), Crete is leading the country in rainfall totals. Five of the eight areas with the highest recorded precipitation nationwide are located on the island.
Among the highest rainfall measurements recorded so far:
– Sisi, Lasithi: 19 mm
– ELMEPA area, Heraklion: 18 mm
– Western Heraklion: 17 mm
– Neapoli, Lasithi: 16 mm
– Potamoi, Lasithi: 12 mm
The persistent downpours have affected both urban and rural areas, with heavy rain reaching the city of Heraklion by early afternoon.
Storm-Force Winds Sweep Crete
At the same time, exceptionally strong winds are battering large parts of the island. Wind gusts reached:
– 85 km/h in Falassarna
– 82 km/h in Rethymno
These conditions have increased the risk of fallen branches, difficult driving conditions and rough seas along the coast, prompting heightened alert levels from local authorities.
Snow, Hail and Winter Conditions Inland
The weather system has also delivered snow, sleet and hail, especially in inland and semi-mountainous areas. Regions around Heraklion’s hinterland, including Archanes, Peza, Myrtia and Kastelli, experienced wintry scenes, while hailstorms were reported in Skalani.
In parts of Messara and Agia Varvara, intense weather phenomena continued throughout the day, with alternating heavy rain and wintry precipitation.
Surprisingly High Temperatures in Some Areas
Despite the harsh conditions, temperatures in several locations remained unusually high for this type of weather. Falassarna recorded 14.4°C, ranking among the highest temperatures nationwide, even as strong winds prevailed.
The highest temperatures recorded include:
– Lentas (Messara): 14.9°C
– Chania city center: 14.3°C
– Ierapetra: 14.3°C
– Petrokefali, Messara: 14.1°C
Authorities Urge Caution
While no major damage has been reported so far, officials are urging residents to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel during peak weather conditions and stay informed through official updates.
Crete’s latest bout of extreme weather highlights the island’s vulnerability to rapidly changing and intense weather systems, with rain, wind and temperature extremes all unfolding simultaneously. As conditions continue to evolve, preparedness and caution remain key for residents and visitors alike.
