Storm brings major disruptions to Athens

December 05, 2025 / 5:25 PM

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Sharjah24 - AFP: A severe storm front hit Athens and other regions of Greece on Friday, prompting authorities to close schools and causing widespread transport disruptions as flooding affected major roads.

Heavy rainfall hits western Athens

Fire department unionist Costas Tsigas said the western side of the greater Athens area was the most severely impacted, receiving “tonnes” of rainwater that clogged streets with debris. The storm also led to the temporary shutdown of the motorway linking Athens to Corinth.

Emergency response efforts

Tsigas told state broadcaster ERT that army machinery had been deployed to help clear affected areas and restore access to damaged roads.

Sports event cancelled

The most intense phase of the storm struck on Thursday, forcing the cancellation of a Euroleague basketball match between Olympiacos Piraeus and Turkey’s Fenerbahce.

Record rain levels

According to meteo.gr, the National Observatory of Athens recorded 245 millimetres (9.5 inches) of rainfall between Thursday and Friday in areas west of the capital.

No major damage reported so far

Despite the severity of the weather, Athens has avoided significant destruction. “The phenomena are very intense, but so far, we haven't had any serious damage in Athens,” said Nikos Chrysogelos, deputy mayor for climate management, speaking to Athens 9.84 radio.