Severe storms lashed the Greek islands of Mykonos and Paros on Monday, resulting in widespread flooding and significant damage.
Forecasters have warned that the bad weather will continue, with heavy rainfall expected to impact the Aegean islands, especially the Cyclades, prompting a red warning until early Tuesday.
In Paros, intense rainfall in popular tourist towns Parikia and Naousa caused floodwaters to surge through the streets, sweeping away cars and debris past iconic whitewashed buildings. Authorities reported that 13 people stranded by the storm were rescued by firefighters and taken to their homes. Fortunately, no injuries or missing persons were reported.
On Mykonos, flooding was less severe, but excavators were still needed to clear a path for the water, which rushed past seafront cafes and restaurants. In response to the storms, authorities closed schools on Paros, Mykonos, and two other nearby islands, while a ban on all traffic, except for emergency vehicles, was enforced. The civil protection service sent out cellphone alerts advising residents to stay indoors.
Municipal crews and private contractors worked to clear roads blocked by fallen rocks, and emergency services rescued stranded motorists.
While conditions on Mykonos and Paros have started to improve, several islands in the Cyclades group remain under severe weather warnings through Tuesday.
The National Meteorological Service has updated its forecasts, predicting more heavy rain and thunderstorms through Wednesday morning, affecting areas including the Ionian Islands, mainland regions, Macedonia, Thrace, the Aegean Sea, and Attica.
Authorities have urged residents in these regions to stay vigilant and adhere to safety instructions during the ongoing storm.
