Greece: Storm Ianos causes damage and disruption in southwest on September 18 /update 2

Event

Storm Ianos made landfall in southwestern Greece on Friday, September 18, causing flooding in the Ionian Islands and prompting the evacuation of three migrant camps near Athens. Winds of up to 117kph (70mph) knocked over trees, causing power outages and resulting in two flights to Cephalonia being rerouted to Athens. The Greek coastguard has also reported that a boat carrying 55 migrants is in distress off the Peloponnese, southwest of Athens, and has urged nearby vessels to come to its aid. Officials have warned that poor conditions could continue until Sunday, with the storm expected to remain in the west of the country before heading south over the Peloponnese. Despite this, heavy rainfall may still occur around Athens on Sunday. As of 16:00 (local time), the Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued red warnings (the highest in a three-tier scale) for the Ionian Islands, West Sterea, and East Sterea and Evvoia due to heavy rainfall, and orange (the second-highest tier) for the Peloponnese region, Thessalia, and Attica due to thunderstorms, rain, and high winds. Forecasters have also warned of flash flooding and mudslides in western and east-central coastal areas of Greece due to rainfall of up to 100mm (4in).

Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous sea conditions are expected in the Ionian Islands and parts of central and southern Greece in the coming days, with associated flooding and disruptions to transport likely.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.