Severe weather swept across the Greek island of Lemnos, triggering flash flooding in the island’s capital and causing extensive material damage, local authorities said.
The heaviest impact was recorded in the city center, particularly in the Agia Triada district and near Eleftherios Venizelos Square, close to the main bus station. Intense rainfall caused a local stream to overflow, sending fast-moving water through major streets and creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians and drivers.
Authorities announced that due to the severe weather, the municipal water supply in the capital has been deemed unsafe for drinking. Residents have been urged not to use tap water for consumption or food preparation until further notice.
More Than 100 Tons of Rain in Three Hours
Speaking to broadcaster MEGA, Lemnos Mayor Eleonora Georga described the scale of the storm.
“The situation was a very severe. More than 100 tons of rain fell within three hours. The city has been flooded. We are facing enormous material damage,” she said.
Georga added that the island had already been declared in a state of emergency due to previous severe weather, further compounding the strain on local infrastructure and response efforts.
Flash Flooding Turns Roads Into Rivers
According to video published by local outlet limnosreport, water levels surged rapidly, carrying mud and debris through the city center. Central roads were transformed into fast-moving streams, creating hazardous conditions and bringing traffic to a near standstill.
Flooding was also reported along the Mitropolis stream, further compounding the situation and stretching local response efforts.
Residents and business owners described scenes resembling “a river” running through the heart of town, underscoring the intensity of the storm.
Lemnos Wakes to Scenes of Destruction
With first light on Saturday, the scale of the devastation became clear. Entire sections of the capital resembled disaster zones, as streets had turned into torrents within hours and businesses into mud-filled spaces.
In the main commercial district of the island’s capital, around the central bus station square and along surrounding streets floodwaters swept away soil, debris and anything in their path.
Shop owners stood helplessly outside their properties. Storefronts, warehouses, workplaces and homes were filled with mud, while residents attempted to salvage what they could using buckets and brooms, according to local outlet limnoslive.
Traffic descended into chaos, with cars immobilized and sidewalks disappearing beneath muddy water.
Emergency Alert Issued in Lemnos
In response to the unfolding conditions, authorities activated Greece’s 112 emergency alert system, sending notifications urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay away from flood-affected areas.
The alert aimed to limit movement while emergency crews assessed the damage and worked to reduce immediate risks.
Cleanup Efforts Continue
Municipal crews began operations early in the morning, pumping water from flooded areas and clearing mud and debris from streets. Despite these efforts, conditions remained challenging as of Saturday morning, with authorities calling for heightened caution until the severe weather fully subsides.
