A powerful storm has caused severe flooding on the Greek island of Paros, a popular holiday destination. The storm hit late on Monday, bringing heavy rain that flooded streets in the tourist towns of Parikia and Naousa. The floodwaters rose quickly, sweeping away cars and debris, and creating chaos among the island’s picturesque whitewashed buildings.
Nearby Mykonos also faced challenges, though the flooding there was less intense. Authorities used excavators to clear the streets as water rushed past cafes and restaurants along the seafront. The storm also brought hail, covering grasslands with small balls of ice.
In response to the dangerous conditions, officials imposed an emergency travel ban on both islands, allowing only emergency vehicles on the roads. Schools were closed to ensure the safety of students and staff. Reports indicate that the severe weather continued into Tuesday, affecting other islands like Chios, Samos, and Crete, where roads were flooded and properties damaged.
On Paros, firefighters rescued 13 people stranded by the storm, but thankfully, there were no reports of injuries or missing persons. Authorities are currently working to remove vehicles trapped in the muddy waters. The flooding has disrupted almost the entire road network, with shops near the coast inundated and boats swept away.
Costas Bizas, the mayor of Paros, described the situation as catastrophic, noting that the damage occurred within just two hours. He has called for more equipment to help clear the streets. Meanwhile, Christos Veronis, the mayor of Mykonos, has requested that a state of emergency be declared for his island.
Greece has faced significant flooding in recent years, with many attributing the extreme weather to climate change and rising global temperatures. Earlier this year, a devastating storm in Thessaly resulted in 17 deaths and widespread destruction. As the islands begin to recover from this latest storm, the community remains on high alert for future weather events.