Bora Storm Strikes Aegean Islands: Two Dead in Lemnos, Heavy Damage in Rhodes
The Bora storm wreaked havoc on the Greek islands over the weekend, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals on Lemnos and extensive damage across Rhodes. Both islands, situated in the Aegean Sea, experienced severe weather, but their geographical differences contributed to varying impacts. Lemnos, located further north, faced significant challenges, while Rhodes, closer to the Turkish coastline, became a focal point of the storm's devastation.
Rhodes recorded an astonishing 300 millimeters of rain over a continuous 16-hour period on Saturday alone—an amount typically accumulated over two months. The relentless downpour resulted in significant flooding and mudslides throughout the island, primarily affecting the city of Ialysos, where numerous buildings were inundated.
In response to the escalating situation, Rhodes' mayor, Alexandros Koliadis, urged residents to stay indoors for their safety, announcing a temporary ban on driving as many roads became hazardous and impassable. Fortunately, while some 80 individuals were evacuated from their homes, there have been no reports of fatalities in Rhodes. Nevertheless, the impact was felt deeply, as schools in the area are set to remain closed on Monday, signaling the need for safety and recovery efforts.
Additionally, the storm's effects extended beyond Rhodes and Lemnos, interrupting railway lines and impacting transport in other parts of Central North Greece. The ongoing challenges may take time to resolve as authorities evaluate the damage and initiate clean-up and restoration efforts. This storm serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather, and the need for preparedness and resilience strategies in the face of climate challenges.
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