The Samaria Gorge in Chania, on the Greek island of Crete, will be closed to visitors on Thursday, July 30, due to strong winds and a very high wildfire risk, authorities announced.
The Organization for Natural Environment and Climate Change (OFYPEKA) said the gorge will remain closed from both entrances throughout the day.
The decision was made after taking into account the latest forecast from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), which predicts sustained winds of 7 Beaufort with gusts reaching 9 Beaufort in the Xyloskalo area, one of the gorge’s main access points.
Authorities also cited Greece’s official wildfire risk forecast, which places the area under Category 4, indicating a very high fire danger.
According to OFYPEKA, the forecast conditions exceed the operational safety limits established by the Chania regional authorities for keeping the gorge open to visitors.
As a result, the Samaria Gorge will remain closed on Thursday as a precautionary measure.
