Autumn storm and heavy rains on Crete: One dead

An autumn storm and heavy rainfall are keeping Crete and numerous Aegean islands in suspense. A shepherd was caught in the floodwaters in the mountainous hinterland of Crete and drowned, the fire department said. Tourists have not been harmed so far, Greek media reported. According to the Greek Meteorological Service (EMY), the severe weather situation with heavy rain and thunderstorms is expected to last until Sunday. “The danger is not over,” warned a meteorologist on Greek radio.

361 liters of rain per square meter

According to the weather service, 361 liters of water per square meter were measured in Anogia near Rethymno in less than 24 hours. On the coast, cars were washed into the sea and bridges and roads were destroyed, as local media reported. The ground is already saturated in many places. This increases the risk of further floods and landslides, warned civil defense.

Ferry traffic affected

Ferry traffic is also partially affected due to strong winds. Most ferries remained in port on Friday morning, Greek broadcaster ERTNews reported. Wind gusts of up to 100 kilometers per hour were measured in the Aegean Sea. There remains a heightened state of alert in Crete. All schools on the island remained closed on Friday.