Storm Erminio battered Athens and the wider Attica region, leaving one person dead and causing widespread flooding, power outages, and major disruptions, as authorities warn that dangerous conditions persist.
The victim, a 55-year-old Polish worker, was found dead in Nea Makri after being swept away by floodwaters and trapped beneath a car. Firefighters recovered his body during a rescue operation involving four personnel and two vehicles.
Deadly flooding in Athens suburbs
According to witnesses, powerful torrents of water surged through streets, sweeping away vehicles and turning roads into rivers. A resident who discovered the victim described the force of the current as overwhelming, with water levels reaching about half a meter but moving with extreme speed.
The man was found lodged beneath a vehicle just meters from his home, having been carried by the current and pinned under the wheel.
Widespread damage across Attica
Authorities reported significant problems in at least 10 areas of Attica, including Voula, Northern Glyfada, Alimos, Aspropyrgos, Ano Liosia, Sounio, Paiania, Nea Smyrni, the Platonic Academy, and Cholargos.
Emergency services received 500 calls related to fallen trees, debris removal, and water pumping. Strong winds also caused power outages in several neighborhoods.
Traffic disruptions were imposed in parts of eastern Attica, particularly around Spata, where roads were closed due to flooding and hazardous conditions.
Emergency alerts and safety measures
Residents across Attica received emergency alerts via Greece’s 112 system, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel. Authorities continue to advise caution as conditions remain unstable.
Meteorologists warn that the next few hours are critical, with additional heavy rain and thunderstorms expected. Rainfall totals in some parts of the Athens basin could exceed 50 millimeters within a short period, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding.
Severe weather hits islands
The storm has also caused major disruption beyond Athens. On the island of Poros, flooding destroyed a small bridge and swept away two vehicles, while emergency crews rescued two elderly residents. Schools on the island have been closed.
Similar conditions were reported on several islands, including Sikinos, Hydra, and Kimolos, where strong waves flooded coastal areas. In Rhodes, authorities issued emergency alerts late at night as severe weather impacted the Dodecanese islands.
The storm system, driven by a deep low-pressure front, continues to move across Greece.
Meteorologists warn that rapidly changing conditions and high rainfall intensity—not just total accumulation—pose the greatest risk, particularly in urban areas like Athens.
