Severe Storms Flood the Greek Island of Rhodes

The Greek vacation island of Rhodes was struck by severe flooding following nearly 17 hours of continuous heavy rainfall that began overnight into Monday. The eastern region around Archangelos bore the brunt of the storm, which transformed streets into rushing rivers, damaged infrastructure, and sent mud and debris rushing into homes and businesses.

Local officials and media reports confirmed that at least 60 vehicles were swept away or severely damaged by the floodwaters. Christos Ikoutas, the community leader of Archangelos, described the situation to local broadcaster ERTNews as a biblical catastrophe, noting that he spent hours bailing water out of his own home. Emergency services and municipal crews worked tirelessly to secure flooded buildings and clear blocked roadways.

The Greek Civil Service responded during the early hours of the morning, utilizing the 112 emergency alert system to urge residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official instructions. Authorities issued a secondary warning later Monday morning, and schools in Archangelos, Afandou, Lindos, and southern Rhodes remained closed to protect students from dangerous travel conditions. Several key roadways were shut down due to rising water and debris.

This latest weather emergency compounds an already difficult autumn season for Greece, which experienced extraordinary rainfall throughout October. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service issued an orange weather alert for the Dodekanes islands, including Rhodes, warning of further heavy downpours, strong winds, and potential hail extending into Tuesday. Forecasters predict that weather conditions will begin to gradually improve by Wednesday, with clearer skies and temperatures reaching around 22 degrees Celsius.

The severe weather has also impacted other parts of Greece, including the islands of Samos and Kalymnos, as well as the mainland port city of Volos. In Samos, local firefighters responded to dozens of emergency calls after a local stream overflowed its banks and flooded basements and dwellings. Emergency personnel utilized heavy machinery to remove thick layers of mud and clear blocked drainage networks across the affected areas.

Tourists currently visiting the island have faced significant disruptions, including localized road closures and restricted excursions. According to legal experts, package travelers affected by extraordinary circumstances at their destination may have the right to cancel their trips without fees or seek price reductions if their accommodations are severely impacted. Regional authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as cleanup efforts get underway.