Greece: Storm Ianos strengthens in Mediterranean Sea September 17 /update 1

Event

Storm Ianos continued to strengthen in the Mediterranean Sea on Thursday, September 17, as it moves towards western and southern Greece. Ianos has strengthened into what is informally known as a "Medicane", an amalgamation of "Mediterranean" and "hurricane". Western Greece will experience heavy rains from Thursday, whilst winds of up to 97kph (60mph) will occur in southwestern and southern Greece, including Crete, between Thursday and Saturday, September 19. These winds have the potential to down trees and power lines and damage some structures. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service has issued red warnings (the highest in a three-tier scale) for the entire Peloponnese region and the Ionian Islands due to predicted high winds and thunderstorms. Forecasters have also warned of flash flooding and mudslides in western and east-central coastal areas of Greece due to rainfall of up to 100mm (4in). Ianos is expected to move over the Peloponnese on Friday, September 18; however, the exact track of the storm remains subject to change.

Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas are expected in the Ionian Islands and parts of southern Greece in the coming days, and associated flooding and disruptions to transport are possible.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.