Powerful storm hits Crete with flooding, 80-year-old man dies and lightning strikes a house chimney

A spell of severe weather has caused serious consequences in Crete, where heavy rainfall has brought widespread flooding, material damage and difficulties to several parts of the island. Rivers and streams have burst their banks, while water has inundated roads, homes and vehicles.

The storm has also claimed a life in Rethymno. The victim was an 80-year-old man who worked in livestock farming and had gone out to check on his herd, but never returned.

Among the worst-affected areas is Mylopotamos, where heavy rainfall has caused flooding, landslides and road damage. In several villages, water has entered homes, making it difficult for residents to move around.

Numerous problems have also been reported in Heraklion after the Drakouliares River burst its banks and flooded the surrounding areas. Emergency teams have been mobilized to assist stranded people and manage the situation.

Floodwaters have swept away several vehicles, while mud and debris carried by the floods have accumulated on various roads. This has caused significant disruptions to traffic.

An unusual incident was also recorded at a home during the storm, when lightning struck the chimney. The powerful impact split it in two and caused a loud noise, so loud that residents thought an explosion had occurred.

Emergency services and civil protection teams continue to work in the field and remain on standby. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, as well as areas near rivers and streams.

The risk of further flooding and landslides remains due to the intense rainfall. Meanwhile, teams are clearing the roads, removing water and dealing with the damage caused by the storm.