Greece: Deadly Rainstorm Floods Crete; Samaria Gorge Closed

October 2, 2026 — A severe rainstorm swept Crete on Thursday, October 1, killing one person and flooding roads across the island. Bad weather is expected to last through Saturday, October 3.

The details

Where: mainly the Heraklion, Lasithi and Rethymnon areas, Keep Talking Greece reports.
Casualties: an 80-year-old man died in Rethymnon when his car was swept away. An elderly couple was taken to hospital.
Emergency response: the fire service took more than 230 calls. The municipality of Mylopotamos declared a state of emergency. Civil Protection sent phone alerts asking people to avoid unnecessary travel.
Closures: schools were closed on Friday, October 2. The Samaria Gorge is closed. Reopening date: TBA.
Airports: the report did not mention any effect on Heraklion (HER) or Chania (CHQ) airports.

What it means for airline travelers

Driving: avoid unnecessary road trips on Crete through Saturday, especially on mountain and rural roads. Do not cross flooded roads.
Hiking: the Samaria Gorge is closed. Check with park authorities before planning any gorge walk.
Flights and ferries: check your flight or sailing before you leave for the airport or port. Allow extra time for the drive.
Standby travelers: weather delays can fill later flights. Do not leave your trip home to the last flight of the day.