Heavy Rains Trigger Over 50 Emergency Calls in Attica, Greece

Strong storms have battered Greece, leading to numerous emergency calls to the Fire Department in Attica. The Fire Department’s Operations Center has received over 50 calls for assistance, mainly related to water pumping, tree felling, and evacuating people to safe locations. Additionally, 14 calls were received regarding people trapped in elevators, primarily in the southern suburbs of Attica. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has issued renewed warnings urging citizens to exercise extreme caution and take self-protection measures against the risks posed by severe weather conditions. Authorities have also placed emergency services, regional governments, and municipalities on high alert to respond swiftly to any potential impacts. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection (civilprotection.gov.gr) has alerted relevant government agencies, regions, and municipalities nationwide to maintain heightened readiness to swiftly address the consequences of the intense weather events. Specific recommendations include: Securing objects that could cause damage or injury if swept away by the weather, ensuring that gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning, avoiding crossing streams and ravines, both on foot and by vehicle, during and for several hours after rainstorms, and avoiding outdoor work and activities in coastal areas during intense weather (risk of lightning strikes). The General Secretariat for Civil Protection strongly encourages citizens to follow instructions from local authorities such as the Traffic Police.