Storm Bora continued to wreak havoc across Greece, prompting authorities to implement emergency measures, including the closure of schools in several regions and restrictions on vehicle movement on Limnos due to hazardous conditions.
The storm’s activity is expected to persist until Tuesday. Intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and in some areas, snowfall have raised concerns about further damage and risks to public safety.
Fallen trees caused by the strong winds of the «Bora» storm in Thessaloniki, December 1, 2024.
Local governments and emergency services remain on high alert, coordinating efforts to minimize the impact on affected communities. Municipal education departments have been instructed to report any additional issues, ensuring timely repairs and preparations before reopening schools.
Fallen trees caused by the strong winds of the «Bora» storm in Thessaloniki, December 1, 2024.
School Closures Across the Country
Due to the severe weather, schools across multiple areas in Greece will remain closed on Monday, December 2, 2024. The affected regions include:
- Thessaloniki: Schools in municipalities such as Pylaia-Chortiatis, Kalamaria, and Pavlos Melas will be closed. Local officials cite safety concerns due to damaged facilities and hazards from fallen trees and power outages.
- Florina: Heavy snowfall has led to the closure of schools for both Monday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 3.
- Rhodes: The South Aegean Regional Governor announced closures of all schools, including kindergartens and secondary education institutions.
- Halkidiki: Schools in areas like Kassandreia, Nea Propontida, and Polygyros will also be closed. Authorities will assess infrastructure for potential damage caused by flooding and falling debris.
- Prespa and Western Macedonia: Snow and icy conditions have forced school closures in municipalities such as Prespa, where local officials are working to address disruptions caused by the storm.
- Limnos: All educational institutions, including primary, secondary, and special education schools, will be closed.
Municipalities are prioritizing the safety of students and staff by using the closures to inspect school facilities and repair any storm-related damage.
A woman cleans mud off a street following floods caused by storm Bora in the area of Lalysos, on the island of Rhodes, Greece, December 1, 2024. REUTERS/Lefteris Damianidis
Vehicle Movement Restricted on Limnos
On the island of Limnos, authorities have imposed a ban on vehicle movement due to extensive damage to the road network caused by the storm. Residents received an emergency 112 alert, warning them to avoid all non-essential travel. The message emphasized that only emergency vehicles are exempt from the restriction.
The severe weather has led to fallen trees, power outages, and water supply disruptions across the island. Authorities are working to clear debris and repair critical infrastructure to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.
