Storms hit Crete and the Aegean islands: a shepherd died, and authorities warn of further flooding

Powerful storms and torrential rain have hit Crete and the Aegean islands, causing flooding, damage and one death. A shepherd died after being swept away by floodwaters in a mountainous area of Crete, emergency services announced. As of Friday, no injured tourists had been reported.

In the town of Anogeia, near Rethymno, approximately 361 millimeters of rainfall were recorded in less than 24 hours. Floodwaters swept away several cars along the coast, while bridges and roads were destroyed. Saturated ground is increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides.

The Hellenic Meteorological Service warned that rain and storms would continue until Sunday. Wind gusts reached 100 kilometers per hour in the Aegean Sea, and ferries were kept in port. All schools in Crete were closed on Friday, and the island is under heightened alert.

Authorities warn that the mountainous terrain and dry soil favor flash floods. Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly frequent in the Mediterranean region amid climate change.