Severe storm causes flooding and fatality in Crete

On October 1, 2026, the island of Crete was hit by extreme weather conditions, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and at least one fatality. Heavy rainfall triggered severe flooding, particularly in the Mylopotamos region, where rivers overflowed their banks, inundating homes, businesses, and road networks. In Diskouri, a road and bridge section collapsed as an elderly couple drove over it; they were rescued and transported to the hospital without serious injuries. Power outages were reported in Zoniana, Anogeia, and Axos, while rainfall in Profitis Ilias exceeded 220 millimeters, causing further destruction to local roads and farms.

Tragically, an elderly shepherd was found dead in the Karines area of Agios Vasileios municipality after being reported missing since the previous evening. According to the Fire Service, his body was discovered in the Kavalaris area, buried under debris. Emergency responders, including ten firefighters, the 3rd EMODE unit, and drone teams, participated in the recovery operation. The island remains in a state of high alert as authorities continue to assess widespread damage across the affected regions.