Severe storm devastates Mani, Greece: Roads split, over 100 vehicles stranded

A severe storm swept through Mani, Greece, on the Assumption Day holiday, causing widespread flooding and significant damage to roads and infrastructure. The downpour, which lasted about four hours, inundated streets and turned them into torrents, carrying debris and causing substantial damage, particularly in eastern and Laconic Mani.

In Oitylo, the road surface suffered severe damage, with one section effectively splitting in two. Residents quickly took to clearing debris, while teams from the Peloponnese Region and the Municipality of East Mani, along with private contractors, worked to restore the road network. The situation was particularly challenging for drivers, as the area experienced high tourist traffic, with many returning from beaches when the storm hit. Eyewitness accounts suggest over 100 vehicles were trapped at a single location, many sustaining damage and remaining immobilized until morning.

The fire service received over 50 calls for assistance. In Oitylo, a woman was injured by lightning while inside her car. According to the National Observatory of Athens' weather station network, Kokkala in Mani recorded 141 millimeters of rain in approximately four hours. Residents noted that visitors' unfamiliarity with the local road network exacerbated the danger during the sudden storm.

Authorities are advising drivers and visitors in the region to exercise extreme caution. While traffic has largely been restored, many areas still have debris, damaged road surfaces, and ongoing repair work. The narrow, winding roads of Mani present particular challenges, with the presence of heavy vehicles and repair crews necessitating careful driving. Cleanup crews estimate that much of the debris will be cleared from the regional road network of East Mani by evening, but full restoration of the damage will require more time.