What is the location of the flooding?
Since September 30, 2026, severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall have caused widespread flooding and landslides across the Greek island of Crete. The worst impacts have been reported in the Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi regional units, where roads, homes and infrastructure have been affected. More than 150 millimeters of rain has fallen in parts of the island (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?
Severe flooding has impacted multiple cities and regions across the Greek island of Crete:
What is the current containment status of the flooding?
Flooding remains ongoing across Crete, with extensive damage to roads, infrastructure, properties, and farms. Firefighters responded to more than 250 calls, while municipal crews used machinery and pumps to clear debris, restore access, and remove water from affected buildings. Severe weather remains active, with additional heavy rain and thunderstorms expected through October 4, keeping the risk of further flooding elevated (2).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
A red weather alert remains in effect, and a 112 emergency message urged residents to avoid travel in affected mountainous areas, including Zoniana, Livadia, and Mylopotamos (3). Schools were suspended in several affected municipalities. Authorities also warned residents not to cross flooded roads and to remain cautious in landslide-prone areas (4).
How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?
It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.
- Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
- Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
- If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
- Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
- Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
- Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
- Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
- If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.
Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.
