2024-11-30 17:38:00
Greeks are advised to stay at home as, according to meteorological services, the bad whether is expected to last until Sunday afternoon.
The victim is a 57-year-old farmer who was trying to attach his car, stuck in the mud, to his tractor to tow it to the island of Limnos, public television channel ERT said. On this island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, near the Turkish coast, many roads were flooded by flooding rivers, according to the same source.
Since Saturday, a wave of bad weather has hit Greece with heavy rain and strong winds, particularly in Athens and its region.
An alert message sent to cell phones
The Civil Protection, in a message sent to mobile phones, also launched a warning message for the risk of heavy rain and strong winds in Central Macedonia (north-east) and Thessaly (centre). Residents of these regions have been asked to avoid travel.
“These (meteorological) phenomena will be very strong and intense,” Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias warned on X, specifying that in some places winds could reach 100 km/h.
How is the Greek government responding to the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather?
Interview: Understanding Greece’s Recent Severe weather Events
Editor of Time.news (E): Thank you for joining us today, Dr.Elena Papadopoulos, an expert in meteorology and climate science. Greece is currently facing severe weather conditions with heavy rain and strong winds. Can you shed some light on the severity of this situation?
Dr. Elena Papadopoulos (D): Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The recent weather events in Greece are indeed concerning.The heavy rainfall and strong winds, notably affecting regions such as Athens, Central Macedonia, and Thessaly, have led to notable disruptions. We’ve even seen tragic incidents,such as the unfortunate death of a 57-year-old farmer,which underscores the risks these conditions pose.
E: It appears that the government has taken precautionary measures by advising residents to stay at home. Why is this protocol significant during such severe weather?
D: These advisories are crucial for public safety. When meteorological services predict severe conditions, like the expected winds reaching up to 100 km/h, the risks associated with travel increase drastically. Roads can become hazardous due to flooding, and visibility may be significantly reduced, leading to potentially dangerous situations. Staying at home minimizes these risks and allows time for emergency services to respond effectively to urgent situations.
E: The Civil Protection agency has issued alerts via mobile phones.How effective are such warnings in helping the public prepare for severe weather?
D: Mobile alerts are a powerful tool in emergency management. They provide immediate, important information directly to individuals. the effectiveness, however, depends on the public’s awareness and willingness to heed these warnings. In this instance, with warnings issued for heavy rain and strong winds, it’s essential that individuals understand the gravity of the situation and take action—weather that’s avoiding travel or preparing their homes.
E: Given your expertise, what are some practical tips for residents in affected areas to stay safe during these severe weather conditions?
D: First and foremost, heed all local advisories. If a warning is issued, it’s essential to stay indoors and avoid unneeded travel. People should also prepare their homes—securing loose items outside, checking drainage systems, and ensuring that emergency supplies are stocked. If they must travel, they should remain vigilant and avoid areas known for flooding. Keeping dialog lines open is also vital; families should establish a plan to connect in case of emergencies.
E: looking at the broader picture, how do you see climate change impacting the frequency and severity of these weather events in Greece?
D: Climate change is indeed influencing weather patterns globally, and Greece is no exception. We’re observing more extreme weather events—intensified storms and unpredictable rainfall—that can lead to severe flooding. As regions like Greece continue to experience such shifts, it’s important for governments and communities to invest in sustainable infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures.
E: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Papadopoulos. As Greece navigates these challenging weather conditions, it’s clear that preparedness and awareness will be key in ensuring public safety.
D: Thank you for having me. It’s vital for everyone to take these conditions seriously and work together as a community to stay safe.
E: For our readers, make sure to stay informed and take the necessary precautions. We will continue to follow this story as it develops.