Corfu, 27 November – The island of Corfu has been severely impacted by heavy rainfall and strong winds that began yesterday, leading to widespread flooding, impassable roads, and significant disruptions. An emergency 112 alert was issued to residents, urging caution as rivers overflowed and numerous areas experienced severe inundation.
Widespread Flooding and Impassable Roads Across Corfu
The relentless downpour caused streams and rivers to overflow their banks, turning many roads into torrents and making them impassable. Several drivers found themselves trapped in their vehicles amidst the rising waters. Homes and basements were flooded in various locations, including Spyrou Peroulaki Street, Kallithea, Kanali, and other affected areas.
The Fire Service has been actively engaged since early morning, providing assistance to those in need. The Police have also been instrumental in closing off dangerous roads and managing traffic to ensure public safety. Their prompt actions have been crucial in responding to the unfolding crisis.
Landslides and Infrastructure Damage
In addition to flooding, several areas of Corfu have been hit by landslides, further exacerbating the challenging conditions. In Glyfada, a road was completely cut in half, while a landslide occurred near Kaiser’s Bridge, highlighting the extent of the geological instability caused by the heavy rainfall.
The village of Agios Dekas also reported significant problems, with two sections of the road leading to the village affected by landslides. These incidents underscore the severe impact on the island’s infrastructure and the difficulties faced by residents and emergency services alike.
Schools Remain Closed, Continued Caution Advised
For the second consecutive day, schools in South and Central Corfu have remained closed as a precautionary measure due to the hazardous conditions. Authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance today, Thursday, as many roads remain submerged and dangerous.
The emergency services have been bolstered by the significant contributions of volunteer groups, including the Hellenic Rescue Team and a group of motorcyclists, as well as private citizens who have stepped forward to offer assistance. This collective effort highlights the strong community spirit in times of crisis.
The Role of Emergency Services and Volunteers
The Fire Service and Police have been working tirelessly around the clock to manage the crisis. Their efforts have included rescuing trapped individuals, pumping water from flooded properties, and securing affected areas. The collaboration with volunteer organizations has been vital in extending the reach of emergency response and providing support to a wider range of affected communities.
The Hellenic Rescue Team, known for its expertise in challenging conditions, has been particularly active in areas where access is difficult. The group of motorcyclists has proven invaluable in navigating flooded and damaged roads to deliver aid and assess the situation in remote locations.
Outlook and Ongoing Efforts
As the immediate threat of heavy rainfall subsides, the focus will shift to assessing the full extent of the damage and initiating recovery efforts. Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the situation and outline plans for infrastructure repair and assistance to affected residents.
The events of the past two days serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather phenomena and the importance of robust emergency preparedness. The resilience of the Corfu community, supported by dedicated emergency services and volunteers, has been critical in navigating this challenging period.
Source: corfutvnews.gr
