Crete Floods Force Hotel Evacuations as Recovery Begins
Forty-seven people were evacuated from hotels and short-term rentals in south-eastern Crete on 4 October after days of torrential rain triggered flooding, landslides and widespread road disruption. The evacuations affected Ferma and Koutsounari, while other parts of the island reported washed-out roads, damaged bridges and stranded vehicles. Airports remained open, but access between some resorts, inland areas and major roads was still being restored.
Heavy rain had hit Crete since 1 October, affecting Lasithi, Rethymno, Heraklion and Chania. In Mylopotamos, part of a bridge collapsed as a couple drove across it, injuring both occupants. Vehicles were swept away in several areas, including Gouves, while landslides, mud and debris blocked roads. The disruption was particularly serious around Ierapetra and parts of Rethymno, where some routes became difficult or temporarily impassable.
By 5 October, authorities had shifted to damage assessment and recovery, with a government delegation visiting the hardest-hit areas. The UK Foreign Office had not advised against travel to Greece, and Heraklion and Chania airports were operating. The latest police updates had listed restrictions on parts of the Ierapetra–Sitia and Afrates–Platania roads, with landslide clearance also reported around Galini and Lithines.
Before Setting Out Across Crete
- Hardest-hit areas: Lasithi, Rethymno and parts of Ierapetra.
- Flights: Heraklion and Chania airports are operating; check individual flight status.
- Roads: Check Greek Police updates before driving through eastern Crete or Rethymno.
- Transfers: Check with your hotel or transfer company that the route is clear before setting off.
- Alerts: Keep Greece’s 112 emergency notifications enabled.
- Cancellations: Check provider and insurance terms before cancelling.
- Emergency: Call 112 if you are in immediate danger.
Anyone travelling to Crete in the next few days should check access to their accommodation, not just their flight status. An operating airport does not guarantee that roads to resorts or inland villages are clear. Confirm transfers before leaving the airport, avoid flooded or landslide-affected roads, and check official local warnings before visiting gorges, mountain routes or other areas damaged by the storm.