Severe weather has caused widespread destruction in parts of Greece, flooding communities, triggering landslides and disrupting transport, as emergency services carried out rescues and authorities placed several areas on alert.

Hardest hit was the agricultural plain of Thessaly in central Greece, where floodwaters and mud submerged homes, businesses and farmland. Residents faced flooding for the third time in recent years, with many describing despair at the repeated damage.

In the coastal area of Agiokampos, large sections were covered in mud after floodwaters swept through. An elderly couple became trapped inside their home and needed assistance to reach safety. One resident said she narrowly avoided being swept away while trying to clear debris as water levels rapidly rose.

River overflow prompts alerts

In the nearby city of Larissa, local authorities closed all access points leading to the banks of the Pinios River after it overflowed in parts of its inner bed. Civil protection teams moved into the area, placing warning tape and informing the public about safety measures.

Officials said water levels were rising and had reached about 4.5 meters. Floodgates were shut earlier in the day as a precaution. Local civil protection services and the municipal water utility remained on high alert.

Ferry collision amid strong winds

Severe winds also affected sea transport. The passenger ferry Blue Star Patmos struck a pier while attempting to dock at the port of Kastellorizo on Monday morning due to adverse weather.

Authorities reported only minor material damage, with no water ingress or pollution. The vessel remained outside the port until conditions improved. All 36 passengers and 81 crew members were safe. Vehicles on board included nine cars, three trucks and three motorcycles.

Landslides and road closures

Heavy rain triggered a landslide on the Ionian Highway in western Greece, near the area of Sykoula, after a slope gave way, broke through protective netting and spilled onto the roadway. Both directions of the highway were closed, and traffic was diverted to the old national road until further notice.

On the island of Chios, a rockfall struck a passing car carrying two passengers. No injuries were reported.

Farmland and crops destroyed

Flooding also damaged agriculture in northern Greece. In the Kilkis region, more than 7,000 hectares of farmland were inundated, destroying crops including wheat, barley and clover, according to the local mayor.

Ski resort rescue

In northern Greece, heavy snowfall left more than 100 visitors stranded for hours at a ski resort in the Falakro mountains. Many of those trapped were families with young children. A rescue operation concluded Sunday night, and all visitors were reported to be in good health.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions as communities assess damage and recovery efforts begin in the affected areas.