A powerful storm has hit the island of Crete, leaving one person dead, causing widespread flooding and damage in several areas. Intense rainfall caused rivers and streams to overflow, while roads, homes and vehicles were engulfed by water.
Initial toll: one victim in Rethymno
The hardest hit by the severe weather was Rethymno, where an 80-year-old man was found dead. He had gone to check on his herd and never returned.
The incident adds to the storm’s tragic toll, as harsh weather conditions have made movement and response efforts on the ground more difficult.
Flooding and heavy damage in Mylopotamos
One of the worst-affected areas is Mylopotamos, where heavy rainfall caused flooding, landslides and damage to the road network.
In several villages, water entered homes, while residents faced serious difficulties moving around. The situation on the ground shows the scale of the damage the storm has left on the island.
Heraklion under pressure as rivers overflow
Major problems were also reported in Heraklion, where the Drakouliares river overflowed and flooded surrounding areas.
Emergency teams have been deployed to rescue stranded people and manage the consequences of the flooding, while traffic has been severely affected on several roads.
Vehicles swept away, lightning strikes a home
In some areas, vehicles were swept away by floodwaters, while other roads were covered in mud and debris carried by the floods.
During the storm, an unusual incident was also recorded: lightning struck the chimney of a house, splitting it and causing a loud explosion that alarmed residents.
Authorities on alert amid risk of worsening conditions
Emergency services and civil protection teams remain on alert, while authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and areas near rivers and streams.
Heavy rainfall has kept the risk of further flooding and landslides high, while operations on the ground are focused on clearing roads, draining water and dealing with the damage.
The storm has once again highlighted how quickly extreme weather can paralyze entire areas and how vulnerable communities remain in the face of sudden flooding.
In Crete, the consequences are still being counted amid material damage, traffic disruption and the risk that rainfall could bring further critical episodes.