Halkidiki, Greece – Storm Bora struck northern Greece on November 30, 2024, unleashing heavy rain, powerful winds, and significant flooding. Halkidiki, a region popular for its beaches and tourism, was among the hardest hit, with homes, businesses, and roads impacted.
Widespread Disruptions Reported
The Greek Meteorological Service issued a red alert ahead of the storm, warning residents of extreme weather conditions. Bora delivered rainfall exceeding 100mm in several areas and winds that reached 80 km/h, causing power outages and landslides. Floodwaters submerged parts of the region, leaving many roads impassable.
Emergency crews worked tirelessly to clear debris and restore power to affected areas. In Nea Moudania, streets were flooded, forcing local authorities to close key routes. Similarly, parts of Nikiti experienced waterlogged streets, with residents reporting damage to homes and vehicles.
National Impact and Fatalities
The stormโs effects extended beyond Halkidiki. On the island of Lemnos, two fatalities were confirmed after heavy rain caused dangerous conditions. Thessaloniki and Pieria also experienced severe weather, with authorities urging people to remain vigilant.
The Hellenic Civil Protection sent out 112 emergency alerts in several regions, advising residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors.
Authorities and Experts Weigh In
Meteorologists from the Greek National Observatory described Bora as part of a larger cyclonic system, typical during the winter months but increasingly intense due to climate change. “These storms are becoming more frequent and severe,” a spokesperson for the Observatory stated.
Local officials have urged residents to remain cautious, as further unstable weather is expected in the coming days. Updates on road closures and power restoration efforts are available through local government websites and meteo.gr.
Preparedness and Recovery
As the storm subsides, the focus shifts to recovery. Emergency services continue to assist those in need, while local governments assess the damage. Halkidiki officials have set up temporary shelters for residents whose homes were affected and are coordinating cleanup operations.
Travelers in the region are advised to stay updated via official channels and follow safety protocols. Tourism authorities emphasized that while the storm caused significant disruptions, Halkidikiโs infrastructure is resilient, and recovery efforts are underway.
Key Takeaways
- Emergency services are actively responding, and residents are urged to prioritize safety as recovery begins.โ
- Storm Bora has left a trail of damage across Halkidiki, with flooding and power outages disrupting daily life.
