Crete hit by powerful storms, more than 22,000 lightning strikes in 24 hours

Bad weather has gripped Crete for three days, as residents of the island face flooding and damage to homes, crops and infrastructure, while the rain and storms are expected to continue today as well.

In the last 24 hours, 22,000 lightning strikes have been recorded; these intense phenomena will continue today too, and the epicentre will be the northern part of the island.

According to meteorologists, the coming hours are the most critical in terms of the intensity of these phenomena. Torrential rain and storms are expected to continue until this afternoon, with conditions forecast to improve gradually by tomorrow morning.

In Zoniana, large amounts of water turned the streets into torrents, while mud and debris caused serious damage to property and infrastructure. The biggest problem in the area was identified at the river, whose bed collapsed in many places. Residents have been warned to leave their homes since yesterday afternoon.

As Kathimerini reported, the army’s help was also requested to resolve the situation and add more machinery.