Severe weather linked to storm "Erminio" has created hazardous conditions across parts of southern Greece, particularly in Crete and the Cyclades islands, as strong winds combine with a heavy influx of Saharan dust.
In islands including Naxos, Santorini, Tinos and Syros, visibility has dropped sharply, with skies turning an intense orange-red. Images from Santorini show the island's famous caldera under an unusually red sky, with visibility described as minimal.
According to the research director at the National Observatory of Athens, Konstantinos Lagouvardos, concentrations of airborne particles have reached exceptionally high levels. Monitoring stations in Rethymno and Adele recorded readings approaching 1,000 micrograms per cubic metre at midday on Wednesday, indicating a severe dust episode. Experts have advised caution, particularly for vulnerable groups, due to the health risks associated with poor air quality.
The phenomenon is expected to ease gradually from Wednesday evening, although a new wave of dust transport is forecast to affect the island again on Thursday. All schools in Crete will reportedly remain closed as a precaution.
Transport has also been disrupted. At Heraklion's "Nikos Kazantzakis" airport, several international incoming flights were diverted to other airports, while domestic flights were cancelled. Airport director Iakovos Ouranos said: "We are monitoring the evolution of the phenomenon minute by minute. The situation is difficult, as due to the [Saharan] dust, visibility is very low, around 200 metres." He added that most aircraft returned without attempting to land.
Maritime travel has also been affected by gale-force winds in the eastern Aegean. Winds reached up to 9 Beaufort, corresponding to around 75–88 km/h, and locally up to 10 Beaufort, with gusts of approximately 89–102 km/h. Authorities have suspended multiple ferry routes. Passengers are being advised to check with local port authorities and travel agents before departure, as conditions remain volatile.
With information from local reporting, including Cyclades24.gr, TinosToday.gr and Neakriti.gr.
