In brief
A severe storm hit parts of Greece recently, resulting in flooding and gale-force winds. Tragically, a man was found dead in Nea Makri, believed to have been swept away while attempting to cross a flooded street. Meanwhile, Saharan dust created unsettling atmospheric conditions over the island of Crete, affecting air travel and alarming local residents. Meteorological authorities have issued warnings for continued bad weather throughout the region.
A man has died near Athens as a storm hits parts of Greece with gale-force winds and flooding, while a Saharan dust storm enveloped the Mediterranean island of Crete.
The man was found under a car in the seaside town of Nea Makri early on Thursday, according to the fire department.
Storm Erminio has flooded streets, closed some schools, and moored ferries. There were also reports in local media of people trapped in their vehicles.
On Crete, some flights were disrupted on Wednesday after dust from an African storm filled the air, turning the sky reddy-orange.
Greece's national meteorological service warned of long-lasting and intense rains and storms in most parts of the country on Thursday.
Local media reports indicate that the man who died in Nea Makri, north-east of Athens, is believed to have been swept away by a torrent while crossing a flooded street. The man, in his 50s, was later found trapped under a car.
The basement of the local police station in Nea Makri was also flooded, with a bridge knocked down on the island of Poros, leading to vehicles being swept away and some schools closing.
The Greek fire department received 674 calls for assistance from Wednesday through early Thursday, with the majority from the Attica region around Athens, mainly concerning fallen trees.
High winds have prevented ferries from operating, although some departures may resume on Thursday, weather permitting. A red weather warning, indicating widespread damage and risk to life, is in effect for Crete, particularly in the west and south.
Local residents and tourists on the island are wearing face masks to prevent inhaling the dust that has affected air quality.
