Athens sanitation crews mobilize after severe storm causes widespread debris

Athens' sanitation and recycling department is on high alert following severe weather that battered the city on Friday, July 24, 2026. Heavy rains caused trees and branches to fall, blocking roads and public areas with debris and mud.

“

The sanitation workers were in the field from the first moment, alongside the relevant services, to remove branches and debris and to restore normalcy to the city as quickly as possible.

From the early hours after the storm, sanitation crews and vehicles were deployed across affected areas. The operation, coordinated by Deputy Mayor for Sanitation and Recycling Olga Douros, focused on clearing fallen branches and vegetation, removing accumulated mud, leaves, and other waste from streets and public spaces. The goal was to restore accessibility and ensure safe passage for pedestrians and vehicles.

Approximately 40 crews, supported by 30 vehicles and heavy machinery, were mobilized for the cleanup effort. More than 60 trips were made to remove branches and debris from all seven municipal communities of Athens. The operation is being conducted in coordination with the city's Civil Protection agency, the Directorate of Greenery and Urban Fauna, the Fire Service, and Municipal Police.

“

We thank them for their prompt response and their work, often under particularly difficult conditions.

Cleanup efforts are ongoing, prioritizing areas with safety concerns, traffic disruptions, or significant material accumulation. Deputy Mayor Douros expressed gratitude to the sanitation workers for their swift response and hard work under difficult conditions. The municipality encourages residents to report any remaining issues, such as fallen branches or debris, by calling 1595 or using the Novoville app.

“

We remain on alert and continue interventions until all problems within our responsibilities are addressed.