ISTANBUL: A series of intense storms accompanied by torrential rains have resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 11 people across Greece, Turkey, and Bulgaria, as authorities contend with the aftermath of extreme weather conditions that followed a period of scorching heat.
In northwestern Turkey, including the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, high waters turned streets into fast-flowing rivers, inundating urban areas. Greece, which has been grappling with the aftermath of massive wildfires, experienced devastating floods that added to the region’s challenges.
The impact of these storms left communities in shock and disbelief, as residents struggled to cope with the widespread damage caused by flooding. Vassilis Tsalamouras, a 58-year-old resident of the central Greek city of Volos, shared the devastation witnessed in his city, stating, “I have never seen anything like this, thousands of shops and buildings have been flooded in Volos and no one is here to help us.”
The phenomenon of extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall and flooding, is increasingly attributed to the changing climate. As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere contains more water vapor, heightening the risk of intense precipitation in various regions worldwide, with notable impacts seen in Asia, Western Europe, and Latin America. In combination with other factors such as urbanization and land-use planning, these intensified rainfall events often contribute to severe flooding.
Storm Batters Greece
The storm responsible for the havoc in the region has been named “Daniel” by Greek meteorologists. It has relentlessly battered Greece since Monday, primarily affecting the central Magnesia region and its capital city, Volos, located 300 kilometers (185 miles) north of Athens.
Tragically, an 87-year-old woman, who had been missing since Tuesday, was discovered dead on Wednesday in the village of Paltsi in Magnesia, as confirmed by fire department spokesman Yannis Artopios in an announcement made on public broadcaster Ert. On Tuesday, another casualty, a 51-year-old man, was found dead near Volos after being swept away by the rising torrent.
The consequences of the storm extend beyond loss of life, as electricity in Volos has been unavailable since Tuesday morning. Furthermore, buildings and roadways in nearby villages have suffered extensive damage due to landslides and flooding. An AFP journalist on-site reported the severity of the situation, highlighting the pressing need for assistance and recovery efforts in the affected areas. – AFP
