Severe storms hit Crete, forcing evacuations and damaging roads

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are causing widespread disruption across Crete, with residents evacuated from their homes, motorists rescued from floodwater and several roads closed. On Saturday, 3 October, emergency crews remain at work across the island, which is under a “Red Code” civil protection mobilisation until Sunday, 4 October.

Flooding and damage have been reported around Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno, as well as in southeastern Crete. Rivers and streams have burst their banks, leaving roads covered in mud, rocks and debris.

Residents evacuated in Mylopotamos

Mylopotamos, in the Rethymno region, is among the areas hardest hit. Residents have received emergency alerts through the 112 system, urging them to limit travel and follow instructions from the authorities.

In Zoniana, the river has overflowed, prompting the evacuation of homes along its banks. Mylopotamos mayor Giorgos Klados has also ordered the evacuation of Dafnedes.

Local news outlet RethNea reports that a makeshift flood barrier built by residents and emergency crews gave way overnight, briefly flooding the village again. By Saturday morning, the stream was once more close to overflowing.

Floodwater washes away sections of the Ierapetra – Sitia road

The southeastern coast has also suffered serious damage. According to public broadcaster ERT, the road linking Ierapetra and Sitia has been severed at three points just beyond Ferma. At one location, the eastbound lane has been washed into the sea.

Firefighters have rescued people from vehicles and homes around Ferma and Makrys Gialos. eKathimerini reports that 23 people have been brought to safety. Emergency crews have also received numerous calls to pump water out of flooded homes and businesses.

Residents in Ferma describe hours of torrential rain, followed by large quantities of mud pouring down from the surrounding hillsides.

Taxi carrying tourists swept off the road

A taxi carrying three tourists was caught in a sudden torrent while travelling uphill, ERT reports.

The vehicle was swept off the road but came to rest against the roadside embankment. The driver and all three passengers managed to get out.

Eight workers remain stranded in Samaria Gorge

Eight workers remain stranded in Samaria Gorge, according to reports published on Saturday. The group consists of six employees of Greece’s Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency, OFYPEKA, and two forest rangers. They entered the national park for work on 29 September.

The workers were around seven kilometres from the entrance when floodwater submerged the trail, cutting off their route back. They have been instructed to stay in a safe location and remain in contact with the authorities.

One member of the group told ERT that they had enough food and other supplies to last until Wednesday. At the time of writing, the reports reviewed for this article do not confirm that they have been evacuated.

Waves flood Chania’s old harbour

Conditions along the coast are also causing problems. In Chania, seawater has washed over the stone promenade at the old harbour, according to ERT.

Heavy rain and swollen streams are not the only hazards: strong winds and rough seas are also affecting parts of the island.

Crete remains under “Red Code” until 4 October

Greece’s Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection confirmed on 3 October that Crete will remain under “Red Code” mobilisation until Sunday, 4 October.

The ministry’s forecast indicated that heavy rain and thunderstorms would remain intense through Saturday afternoon, before continuing with reduced intensity into Sunday morning. Winds over the Aegean were also expected to ease slightly.

Emergency crews are continuing rescue operations and remain on standby. Floodwater, mud and rocks are making many roads difficult to use. Even as the rain eases, some routes may remain closed because of damage.

What visitors to Crete need to know

Check local road updates before setting off, particularly around Ierapetra, Ferma and Sitia. A route appearing on your navigation app does not necessarily mean it is open or safe to use.

While on the island:

• Follow 112 emergency alerts and instructions from local authorities.
• Do not drive or walk through floodwater.
• Postpone visits to gorges and mountain trails if conditions are unsafe.
• Ask your accommodation host or hotel reception about local disruption before travelling.

Affected areas – map of Crete

Information as of 3 October 2026. Conditions are still changing, and weather warnings and road closures may be updated.