Greece: Flash flood strikes Maroussi (Athens) July 26

Event

A flash flood struck Maroussi, a northern suburb of Athens, on Thursday, July 26, inundating homes and businesses. Street closures were also reported, with authorities discouraging drivers from traveling through the affected area. Thunderstorm warnings are in effect across mainland Greece through Thursday evening (local time); locally severe thunderstorms are possible. Lingering flooding and localized traffic disruptions are expected in the Maroussi area in the coming hours.

Context

The flooding notably follows a wildfire near Athens that left at least 82 people dead and over 180 injured.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.