Heavy rainstorms and strong winds swept across Greece’s Ionian islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia on Sunday, September 28, causing widespread disruption to air travel and road networks.
According to the National Observatory of Athens’ Meteo service, rainfall reached 113.8 mm in Zakynthos, the highest recorded in the region that day. The downpour led to canceled and delayed flights, as well as road closures due to flooding and debris.
Flight Cancellations and Long Delays
At Zakynthos Airport, hundreds of travelers—many of them tourists—faced hours of waiting as poor visibility made it impossible for flights to operate. Local reports described crowds gathering inside and outside the terminal, with passengers seeking shelter from the rain under hangars.
Similar scenes unfolded in Kefalonia, where four flights were unable to land due to severe weather. Passengers were left stranded as airlines and authorities struggled to provide timely updates. Many travelers expressed frustration over the lack of communication, arriving at airports without being aware that their flights had already been disrupted.
Roads Closed Due to Flooding
Beyond the airports, the storm also hit local infrastructure. In Zakynthos, the Zakynthos–Alykes provincial road was closed near Alikanas due to flooding risks, while another road near Lithakia was covered with gravel, stones, and water runoff, creating dangerous driving conditions.
Emergency services and local police were dispatched to clear debris and monitor the affected areas. Authorities urged drivers to exercise extreme caution and maintain low speeds until conditions improve.
