A severe weather crisis has struck Greece’s popular island destinations, causing chaos for travelers and residents alike. Since last Friday, relentless storms have unleashed torrential rains, violent winds, and flash floods, transforming streets into raging rivers and prompting emergency measures. The hardest-hit islands—including Mykonos and Paros, famed for their idyllic beaches and vibrant nightlife—are now under strict travel bans as authorities scramble to prevent further damage and assist those trapped by the disaster.
The situation turned critical on Monday when floodwaters surged through the streets of Naoussa on Paros, sweeping away cars and inundating homes and businesses. Similar scenes unfolded in Mykonos, where coastal restaurants and shops were submerged under waist-high water. The Greek meteorological service issued a rare red alert, warning of life-threatening conditions, including hail, waterspouts, and wind gusts reaching 60 mph.
Transportation across the Cyclades islands has ground to a halt. Ferries remain docked, leaving thousands of tourists stranded, while airlines have canceled dozens of flights to Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes due to dangerous crosswinds. Roads on Paros and Mykonos are impassable, blocked by landslides, fallen trees, and debris. In some areas, excavators are working around the clock to clear massive boulders and wrecked vehicles.
Emergency crews have already rescued at least 13 people from flooded buildings, with no serious injuries reported so far. However, officials warn that the crisis is far from over. The Greek military has been deployed to assist with evacuations if needed, and heavy machinery is being used to reopen critical routes. Tourists have described scenes of chaos, with some trapped in hotels as water levels rose rapidly.
The extreme weather is part of a larger storm system affecting southern Europe, which has also caused power outages in Italy and disrupted travel in Croatia. Climate experts note that such intense Mediterranean storms are becoming more frequent, raising concerns about long-term impacts on tourism-dependent regions.
For now, travelers are urged to avoid non-essential trips to the affected islands until at least Thursday. Those already in Greece should monitor official updates, as conditions may worsen before improving. With roads closed, flights suspended, and ferries immobilized, the message from authorities is clear: stay indoors, avoid unnecessary risks, and prepare for further disruptions.
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