Storm hits Corfu and Kefalonia, UK tourists advised to prepare
2024-09-10 08:52- Severe weather has impacted Corfu and Kefalonia, with strong winds and heavy rain disrupting typical tourist conditions.
- The Greek government has issued warnings and is on high alert, with emergency services prepared for potential flooding.
- Travelers should be prepared for continued adverse weather and may need to adjust their holiday plans accordingly.
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Insights
Severe weather has struck Greece, particularly affecting the popular tourist islands of Corfu and Kefalonia. On Monday, storm clouds gathered over these regions, leading to strong winds and heavy rainfall that disrupted the typically pleasant conditions. Tourists expecting sunny weather were caught off guard as the storm moved across the country from west to east, with forecasts indicating continued adverse weather until at least Wednesday, September 11. Weather experts have warned of a mix of heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds, raising concerns about potential flooding in vulnerable areas. The Greek government has taken precautionary measures, with the Minister of Citizen Protection advising residents and tourists to remain vigilant. He emphasized that the current weather patterns signify a shift to an autumnal system, suggesting prolonged bad weather rather than just typical summer instability. In response to the storm, the Armed Forces and Coast Guard are on high alert, prepared to assist if necessary. Local police will also be monitoring the situation to ensure safety and manage traffic regulations. As the storm progresses, holidaymakers may need to adjust their plans, particularly for outdoor activities, although there is hope for improved weather conditions by midweek. Despite a slight easing of the storm by Wednesday, forecasts predict lingering dark clouds and occasional showers, indicating that travelers should remain cautious and prepared for unpredictable weather during their stay in Greece.
Contexts
Recent storms have impacted the popular Greek islands of Corfu and Kefalonia, prompting advisories for UK tourists to prepare for potential disruptions. This weather event comes at a time when Greece has seen a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with a 21.3% rise noted in May. However, the average spending per trip has decreased by 12.2%, raising concerns about the economic sustainability of local communities. The rise in tourism has been attributed to investments in infrastructure and hotel improvements in lesser-known areas of Greece, such as the Peloponnese and Skiathos. These developments have attracted holidaymakers seeking quieter and more affordable experiences, particularly in the autumn months. Despite the influx of visitors, popular tourist destinations like Athens and Santorini are facing challenges, including rising rents and a housing crisis. This situation has led to calls for sustainable tourism practices to ensure that local communities can benefit from the tourism boom without facing adverse effects. As the storms affect travel plans, it is crucial for tourists to stay informed and prepared, especially in light of the ongoing changes in the tourism landscape in Greece.
