Heavy rain and strong storms have hit parts of Italy and Greece, causing flooding, property damage and traffic disruptions. The most critical situation has been recorded on the Greek island of Rhodes, while Italy has been put on alert due to the risk of flooding and landslides.
In Greece, severe weather hit the island of Rhodes overnight. The worst-hit area was Arkhangelsko, where a river burst its banks and turned roads into powerful streams of water. Vehicles were swept away, while water entered homes, shops and businesses, causing significant damage.
At least 60 vehicles were swept away by the raging waters.
Due to the situation, schools in several municipalities of Rhodes have been closed. Problems from the rainfall have also been reported in Afantou and other areas of the island.
Meanwhile, Italy is also facing a significant deterioration in weather conditions. The Civil Protection Department has declared an orange alert in the Puglia and Basilicata regions, while a yellow alert has been activated in Calabria, Campania, Molise, Abruzzo and Sicily.
According to Italian authorities, a low-pressure system moving from the Balkans towards the Tyrrhenian Sea is expected to bring heavy rainfall, storms, hail and strong winds. The main concern is the possibility of local flooding, river overflows and landslides.
Preventive measures have been taken in several cities, including the closure of schools, public parks and other crowded spaces. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution in areas near rivers and streams.
