In brief
Severe weather in Greece has resulted in one man's death and widespread disruptions, particularly in Athens and Crete. As Storm Erminio brings flooding and high winds, the skies over Crete have been filled with dust from the Sahara, turning them red-orange and prompting flight disruptions. The national meteorological service warns of continuing adverse conditions across the country.
A man has died near Athens as a storm hits parts of Greece with gale-force winds and flooding, while a Saharan dust storm enveloped the island of Crete.
The man was found under a car in the Nea Makri rural area early on Thursday, according to the fire department.
Storm Erminio has flooded streets, closed some schools and moored ferries. Meanwhile, some flights were disrupted on Crete on Wednesday after dust from an African storm filled the air, turning the sky red-orange.
The weather is expected to be bad on Thursday in most areas of the country with long-lasting and intense rains and storms and possibly with local hail, according to the national meteorological service.
A red warning is in place in Crete, mainly in the west and south, from midday until late at night on Thursday.
The fire department received 674 calls for assistance from Wednesday through the early hours of Thursday. The majority were in the Attica region that encompasses Athens, with most calls for fallen trees.
High winds have kept ferries moored in ports, with Greek media reporting some departures may resume on Thursday, weather permitting.
Streets as well as the basement of the local police station in Nea Makri were flooded. A bridge was knocked down on the island of Poros and vehicles have reportedly been swept away. Some schools have also been closed.
