A motorcyclist was hurt yesterday afternoon when a tree toppled at the Benaki and Gamveta junction in Exarchia, right in central Athens, shortly after a heavy downpour. ERT reports the rider was taken to Evangelismos Hospital, and doctors say his life isn’t at risk. The fall triggered an emergency response and temporary traffic limits nearby.
Which streets are blocked?
Because of the incident, Benaki Street is shut from its junction with Akadimias Street. That created local disruption around Exarchia, a tightly packed part of central Athens. Drivers reported delays, as the stretch near the Benaki and Gamveta intersection stayed off-limits while crews made the site safe and checked the damage.
What caused the incident?
The tree gave way after a spell of heavy rain in the early afternoon. Witnesses say a car and a motorcycle were stopped at a sign at the junction when the trunk snapped. The tree fell onto the car, causing major damage, but the vehicle took most of the force and likely spared the nearby rider from worse injuries.
Who responded on site?
Fire Service crews and an EKAV ambulance arrived within minutes. The Fire Service also noted its operations center took 11 calls about water pumping during the same weather burst, and in most of those, water levels were low enough that crews didn’t need to act.
How long will the disruption last?
Authorities hadn’t given a timeline for full reopening when this was filed. It hinges on clearing debris and completing safety checks on nearby trees and infrastructure. This will be updated as the situation changes.
Where to find official updates?
Residents and commuters should follow official city and emergency service channels for traffic notices and reopening times. In the meantime, pick alternate routes around central Athens and leave a little extra time when passing through Exarchia.
When will traffic return to normal?
Traffic should settle once the tree is removed and the site is declared safe. Because the blockage is local, wider network issues should be limited, though short backups on nearby streets may pop up while crews work.
Key facts at a glance
- Location: Benaki and Gamveta, Exarchia (central Athens).
- Timing: Thursday afternoon, after heavy rain.
- Injuries: One motorcyclist, not life-threatening; taken to Evangelismos Hospital.
- Traffic: Benaki St closed from Akadimias during the response.
- Response: Fire Service and EKAV on site; 11 weather-related calls across the city.
If you saw hazards or blocked drains in the area, report them through official channels so crews can prioritize follow-up work after the storm.
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