Corfu, Greece – November 21 – Intense weather phenomena have caused significant problems across western and northwestern Greece, with Corfu bearing the brunt of the storm. The northern part of the island has reported widespread damage due to heavy rainfall, leading to floods, landslides, and disruptions to daily life.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The severe storm has resulted in extensive flooding, numerous landslides, and considerable damage to residential areas. While the immediate focus is on Corfu, other regions such as Parga, Arta, Ioannina, Igoumenitsa, Kastoria, and the low-lying areas of Thesprotia, where fields in Kalamas are submerged, have also been affected.
In Karousades, heavy rainfall triggered a major landslide, causing damage to parked vehicles and unoccupied homes. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in these incidents, as the affected houses were vacant at the time.
To assist the affected residents and manage the situation, a specialized team of four members from the 5th EMAK unit, equipped with two rescue boats, water pumps, and rescue gear, has been dispatched from Ioannina to Corfu.
In response to the hazardous conditions, schools in northern Corfu have been closed. Additionally, several areas are experiencing power outages and traffic disruptions due to blocked roads, further complicating the situation for residents.
Weather Advisory and Forecast
The National Meteorological Service (EMY) issued an Extraordinary Weather Bulletin on Thursday, November 20, warning of a further deterioration in weather conditions across western and northwestern Greece. The bulletin predicted strong rains and thunderstorms for Friday, November 21, specifically targeting:
- The Ionian Islands (Corfu, Paxi, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Ithaca)
- Aetolia-Acarnania
- Epirus
The weather is expected to gradually improve from late Friday night into Saturday, offering some relief to the beleaguered regions. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines during this period of severe weather.
The impact of the storm underscores the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events and highlights the importance of robust emergency response systems to mitigate the effects on communities and infrastructure. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as conditions evolve.
Source: https://www.proson.gr/koinonia/76361_kerkyra-plimmyres-katolisthiseis-kai-kleista-sholeia-logo-tis-kakokairias?amp
