Rhodes, Greece, experienced catastrophic flooding on November 30, 2024, due to Storm Bora. Torrential rainfall, totaling 170mm in just 12 hours, led to widespread damage and disruption.
The intense downpour overwhelmed the island’s infrastructure. The fire service received over 600 calls for assistance, performing 200 water pumpings and rescuing at least 80 people from flooded vehicles and homes. Some individuals sustained injuries requiring hospitalization.
The South Aegean regional governor, George Hatzimarkos, described the event as the worst flooding the island has ever seen, with significant damage to the road network. A 24-hour traffic ban was imposed. A statement from Hatzimarkos confirmed the widespread damage to roads, homes, and businesses and highlighted the challenging conditions faced by rescue crews, some of whom required rescuing themselves. Reinforcements with specialized equipment and rescue boats were deployed from Athens. A 112 emergency alert message was issued, reinforcing the travel ban.
As of the latest reports, no one is missing. The area hardest hit, Ialysos, is being overseen by the Hellenic Disaster Management Agency (EMAK). Damage assessment will begin after the storm subsides, with further rainfall expected on Sunday. The national government remains on high alert and in constant communication with the Ministry of Civil Protection.