Desperate Calls for Assistance: British Citizens Left “Stranded” in Greece Floods

This is How British Tourists are Begging for Help After Being ‘Stranded‘ During Greece Floods

The Situation on Skiathos Island

British tourists on the small Greek island of Skiathos have found themselves stranded as a severe storm wreaks havoc on mainland Greece and its surrounding islands, causing widespread flooding. The streets have been transformed into raging torrents, and local authorities have banned traffic in the central town of Volos, the nearby mountain region of Pilion, and on Skiathos Island itself until the storm passes.

Devastating Effects of the Storm

Videos posted on social media show the streets of Skiathos turned into raging rivers, with cars and boats being washed away. Thunder and lightning have persisted for 12 hours straight, leaving tourists trapped in their hotel rooms, experiencing power cuts, and witnessing flooding. The situation has led to concerns among the stranded tourists about whether they will be able to return home, as there are reports of disrupted flights.

Request for State of Emergency

The mayor of Skiathos has made a formal request to declare a state of emergency on the island, according to local media reports. Tourists stranded on the island have taken to social media to describe their harrowing experiences, with one person stating, “I’m on holiday in Skiathos, torrential rain for the last 24-plus hours and heavy flooding, unable to leave the hotel.” Another person expressed astonishment at the intensity of the storm, saying, “Never seen a storm like this in my life, 12 hours of constant thunder & lightning!!!”

Flight Disruptions

The storm has also affected air travel, with Jet2 canceling all flights scheduled to depart from Skiathos on Tuesday and Wednesday. A flight from London Stansted to Skiathos was diverted to Thessaloniki on Monday, and passengers were provided accommodation in a hotel. The return flight to the UK is scheduled for Wednesday. Jet2 has assured affected customers that they will receive full refunds and that the airline is closely monitoring the situation on the island.

Editorial: Extreme Weather Events and Travel Precautions

Extreme weather events such as the severe storm currently affecting Greece remind us of the unpredictable nature of the natural world and its potential impact on our daily lives. While travelers seek adventure and relaxation during their vacations, it is essential to recognize the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Traveler Responsibility

When planning a trip, it is crucial to research the local weather conditions and any potential risks associated with the chosen destination. This includes staying updated on weather forecasts and obtaining information from reliable sources. Tourists should also consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected events such as natural disasters and travel disruptions.

Following Local Authorities’ Advice

In times of extreme weather events, it is essential to follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. If they recommend staying indoors or avoiding certain areas, tourists should heed these warnings for their own safety. In the case of Greece’s severe storm, holidaymakers have been urged to stay indoors and avoid using their cars.

Flexibility and Understanding from Travel Providers

In situations beyond anyone’s control, such as flight cancellations or itinerary changes due to extreme weather, it is crucial for travel providers to demonstrate flexibility and provide clear communication to affected customers. The actions taken by Jet2 in canceling flights and ensuring customers receive full refunds are commendable, as they prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of their clients.

Climate Change and Travel Considerations

Extreme weather events like the Greece floods serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. As Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated, it is becoming increasingly likely that summers as we once knew them will no longer exist, and future summers may be even more challenging. Travelers should factor in climate realities and be conscious of their own carbon footprint when embarking on trips.

Advice for Stranded Tourists

For the British tourists currently stranded in Greece due to the floods, there are several steps they can take to ensure their well-being and eventual return home:

1. Stay in contact with local authorities and follow their instructions closely.
2. Communicate with their travel providers, such as airlines and hotels, to receive updates on travel arrangements and accommodations.
3. Keep important documents, such as passports and travel insurance information, readily accessible.
4. Stay connected with family and friends to inform them of their situation and any changes to their travel plans.
5. Maintain a well-stocked supply of food, water, and necessary medications in case of extended stays.
6. Follow news updates and local media for the latest information on the flood situation and possible evacuation plans.
7. Remain calm and patient during this challenging time and support fellow stranded tourists.

While the situation may be distressing, the combined efforts of local authorities, travel providers, and the resilience of the affected tourists can help navigate through this crisis.