Deadly Storm Hits Rhodes, Evia, Sporades; One Killed

A severe weather system battered multiple Greek regions on October 14, killing a 62-year-old hotel employee on Rhodes when a flash flood swept four vehicles into the sea near Stegna. The victim, originally from northern Greece, was found unconscious among reeds 100 meters from the stream mouth and pronounced dead at the Archangelos Health Center.

On Evia, the Kireas River overflowed, severely damaging the road linking Prokopi and Mantoudi. Flooding also struck Skiathos and Skopelos in the Sporades, inundating roads, shops, and homes, while traffic halted at Markopoulo beach in Oropos, Attica.

“The vehicle was dragged by the rushing waters and ended up on the beach, about 100 meters from the stream outlet, among reeds and debris.”

Gale-force north winds reaching 9 Beaufort suspended all ferry sailings from Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio until 06:00 on Thursday, October 16. Flight operations also faced disruptions across the affected areas.

Authorities reported over 30 vehicle rescues and 200 water-pumping operations on Rhodes alone, where rainfall reached 264 millimeters. A waterspout was spotted near Lindos, and a woman was freed from a stranded car in Asgourou.

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service indicates gradual improvement, though mountain runoff keeps flood risks elevated. A new deterioration is forecast from Friday, October 17, prompting Civil Protection to maintain high alert.