Residents of the picturesque Greek island of Santorini, known for its stunning blue skies, were facing a rare and alarming situation caused by a Saharan storm. The locals were compelled to wear face masks outdoors to shield themselves from the thick dust in the extraordinary weather event. This storm, following a ‘red alert’ issued due to floods in December, is the latest to impact the Aegean region.
Health professionals issued warnings about the potential respiratory risks posed by the increased levels of airborne particles. The iconic white-domed churches of Santorini took on an otherworldly appearance reminiscent of a science fiction movie.
The storm, carrying dust from North Africa over a distance of approximately 2,300 miles to Santorini, transformed the sky into a surreal orange-red hue. The event caused disruptions for the island’s 15,500 permanent residents and the millions of tourists who visit annually.
In response to the adverse conditions, incoming flights were redirected to alternative airports on nearby islands such as Crete, Athens, and Corfu. Travel plans were further disrupted as a flight from Manchester to Rhodes had to land on a different island. Climate change is being pointed to as a contributing factor to the travel disturbances.
The region was also hit by strong winds and heavy rainfall brought by Storm Erminio. The downpour, mixed with dust, washed over Crete, leaving vehicles and buildings covered in mud. Authorities issued a red weather warning due to the severe conditions.
The storm’s impact led to disruptions in both air and sea travel, affecting transportation to and from Greece and its various islands just before the Easter holidays. Tragically, a man lost his life in the Nea Makri area near Athens on the mainland, where he was found beneath a car in an area affected by flooding. Simultaneously, a dust storm struck Libya, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency in Tobruk as the skies took on a reddish hue.
