Severe Flooding from Storm Bora Devastates Greece: Two Dead, Infrastructure Severely Damaged

Torrential rains and powerful winds from Storm Bora have caused widespread devastation across Greece, resulting in two fatalities, significant damage to infrastructure, and extensive disruption to daily life. The storm, which began impacting the nation on Saturday, brought more than 30 centimeters of rainfall to the island of Rhodes and has affected other regions, including the island of Lemnos and mainland cities like Thessaloniki.

Lemnos Island: Fatalities and Warnings
On Lemnos, authorities report two deaths directly linked to the storm’s effects. A 70-year-old resident of Kontias died after falling while attempting to clear floodwaters from his home, and a 57-year-old farmer was swept away near a dam close to his village while attempting to free his car from mud and debris. Emergency responders, including firefighters, discovered his body after an extensive search.

The rural road network linking key villages, such as Kontias, Thanos, and Agios Dimitris, has been completely destroyed, isolating residents and complicating rescue efforts. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for Kontias amid fears that a nearby dam could overflow, posing further risks to the community.

Rhodes Island: Enormous Damage and Emergency Measures
Rhodes, one of Greece’s largest islands, has experienced what local officials describe as “enormous damage.” Bridges in the Kallithea-Faliraki area have collapsed, and major roads remain impassable. The Southern Aegean regional governor, Giorgos Hatzimarkos, confirmed the scale of destruction, while Mayor Alexandros Koliadis has formally requested the central government to declare a state of emergency. A 24-hour ban on vehicle movement has been imposed to prevent accidents on the island’s flooded and unstable roadways.

Residents report being trapped overnight as surging floodwaters inundated homes and businesses. Rescue teams have been deployed to assist stranded individuals, with emergency services working tirelessly to restore safe passage and assess damages.

Thessaloniki and Mainland Greece
In Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, heavy rain and high winds have caused flooding and disrupted transportation. The National Meteorological Service has issued warnings for continued severe weather, urging residents across the country to remain vigilant.

Public Safety Advisory
Officials emphasize the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel in affected areas, adhering to evacuation orders, and staying informed through official channels. Residents are advised to monitor updates from the National Meteorological Service and local authorities while taking precautions to secure their homes and belongings.

Conclusion
As Storm Bora continues to impact Greece, emergency services and local governments are prioritizing rescue operations, infrastructure repairs, and the safety of affected communities. The public is urged to cooperate with authorities and stay updated as the situation evolves.