Effects and safety measures: Flight disruptions, fires and falling trees and balconies. Samaria Gorge also closed again.
Flight and Weather Disruptions
Strong southerly winds have thrown the main airport into chaos. Flights are delayed left and right, and some planes are just stuck on the ground, waiting for a break in the weather.
Even important missions are grounded for now. There’s just no getting around it until things settle down.
Not every flight got caught in the mess, though. A flight to Rhodes managed to take off as planned early in the day.
Another one, Athens to Chania, made it safely too. But then, a flight from Athens to Heraklion had to turn back—weather just wouldn’t cooperate.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a gamble for anyone trying to fly in these conditions.
Fire Incidents and Emergency Response
Late in the morning, fires broke out in the Heraklion area at almost the same time. Emergency services got the call and were on the move fast.
Despite the strong winds, fire crews managed to keep homes and people safe. Their quick action made all the difference.
These fires really drive home how much harder things get when the wind’s raging. Flames can spread in no time, and it’s a nightmare for anyone trying to put them out.
Locals are being told to keep an eye out for updates and follow instructions from authorities. It’s not the time to take chances.
Wind Hazards in Public Areas
The wind’s been sending things flying in public spaces. Plant pots, for example, got blown right off a street and crashed onto the road—luckily, nobody got hurt.
Police and city workers showed up quickly, and the property owner cleared away anything else that looked risky. That’s teamwork, I guess.
At the same time, the strong winds caused problems in the city of Heraklion, where, for example, part of a balcony collapsed on Drakontopoulou Street, fortunately causing minor injury to the homeowner’s hand, and a tree fell on a car on Mavsolou Street in Nea Alikarnassos.
Among other things, branches and small trees have fallen in various parts of the road network of Chania and BOAK, causing inconvenience to motorists. The relevant services are alerting motorists until the situation has calmed down.
Due to the phenomenon, the Samaria Gorge is also closed!
Officials are saying it’s best to avoid going out unless you really have to. If you do, steer clear of trees that look like they might come down.
Wider pavements or open spaces are the safer bet if you need to walk or drive. And, honestly, keep an eye out for stuff falling from above.
Precautionary Measures and Public Guidance
Authorities are asking people to skip any open flames or burning for now. Even a tiny spark could turn into a major problem with these winds.
Jobs that involve heat or cutting tools? Better to wait until things calm down a bit.
A deputy mayor even reminded folks not to walk under trees, just in case. Stick to safer routes—seems like common sense, but it’s worth repeating.
Air Quality and Environmental Concerns
The wind’s brought in dust from the Sahara, and it’s really thickened the air. PM10 particle levels are expected to shoot up, especially in the eastern Mediterranean.
This dust isn’t just annoying—it’s rough on anyone with breathing issues, and it can make it hard to see. Health authorities are keeping tabs and might put out warnings for kids, older folks, or anyone with lung problems.
The temperatures are around 31° Celsius.
Summary of Key Points
Issue |
Details |
|---|---|
Airport Delays |
Many flights delayed or cancelled due to strong winds. |
Fire Outbreaks |
Multiple fires started, firefighting teams active. |
Public Safety |
Objects falling in streets, travel caution advised. |
Preventative Advice |
Avoid burning activities and risky work during winds. |
Air Pollution |
High dust levels from Sahara increasing PM10 particles. |
Flights are getting delayed or outright cancelled, mostly because of those relentless winds.
Fires have started popping up in several places, so firefighting teams are scrambling.
With objects falling onto streets, people are being told to watch out if they have to travel.
Honestly, it’s probably smart to skip any burning or risky outdoor work while these winds are around.
On top of everything else, dust from the Sahara is pushing up PM10 pollution—air quality’s really taking a hit.
Source: CretaLive News and Creta Times
I have lived here for 18 years and have traveled most of the island as a photographer.
This recent sandstorm is the worst I have ever experienced.
The clean-up will probably cost a lot of water, which is worrying given that it is the holiday season.
Yes, there is damage at the Aposlemis dam and a warning not to use water for cleaning the sand dust on the ground, verandas and balconies plus cars!