Austrian Couple Dies on Honeymoon in Greece Due to Torrential Rains
An Austrian couple, who were on their honeymoon in Greece, tragically lost their lives as torrential rains caused flash floods that swept away the house they were staying in. The incident occurred in the resort of Potistika, near Mount Pelion, when Storm Daniel hit on September 6th. The couple’s holiday home was washed away and ended up in the sea.
The owner of the house, Thanasis Samaras, had previously mentioned that the couple was from Graz. Although their identities have not been disclosed, the Austrian foreign ministry confirmed their deaths after conducting DNA tests.
Expressing their condolences, a spokesperson for the Austrian foreign ministry stated, “It is with deep sadness that we have to confirm the death of two Austrian citizens in Greece. The comparisons of DNA profiles have now confirmed the identity of the two missing persons. In these difficult times, we extend our deepest condolences to the families and the bereaved.”
The Austrian embassy in Athens is providing support to the relatives of the deceased couple, according to the spokesperson.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also addressed the devastating situation the country is facing, stating, “Over a two-week period, we experienced the worst wildfire and the worst floods in our history.” The floods have claimed the lives of 15 individuals and left thousands displaced, with 30 villages becoming inaccessible due to the threat of waterborne diseases.
Several Greek regions bore the brunt of the torrential rain, with some areas receiving up to 800mm (31.5in) of rain, surpassing the annual average. The Karditsa plain in central Greece has been transformed into a lake, while villages around Palamas remain submerged.
The mayor of Palamas, Giorgos Sakellariou, described the situation as tragic, with people being trapped in their homes.
The owner of the holiday home where the Austrian couple had sought refuge, Mr. Samaras, revealed that he and other guests had evacuated to higher ground, advising the couple to do the same. However, they made the difficult decision to shelter inside the bungalow.
Highlighting the impact of climate change, scientists warn that global warming leads to increased water evaporation during summer months, resulting in more intense storms.
Greece has experienced a challenging summer, battling devastating wildfires. Last month, the country witnessed the EU’s largest wildfire on record, claiming the lives of at least 20 people.