Greek island paradise underwater: Storm unleashes chaos on Paros and Mykonos

A rare and powerful storm swept across the Cyclades region of Greece on 31 March 2025, triggering flash floods that submerged parts of Paros and Mykonos, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The deluge followed a period of unseasonably volatile weather, culminating in intense rainfall that overwhelmed drainage systems, turned streets into rivers, and caused widespread damage to homes, vehicles, and local businesses. Among the hardest-hit areas was Naousa, a picturesque harbour town in Paros known for its vibrant restaurants and Cycladic architecture, where drone footage captured cars floating in muddy water and authorities working through thick sediment to restore order.

According to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service, the storm was part of a broader low-pressure system moving across the Aegean Sea. While heavy rainfall is not uncommon in the spring months, meteorologists described the volume and speed of precipitation as exceptional. The resulting flash flooding struck with little warning, catching residents and tourists off guard despite advance alerts issued via the European emergency notification system.

What areas were most affected by the flooding in Paros and Mykonos?

In Paros, the storm’s impact was especially acute in Naousa and Parikia, the island’s capital and main port. Streets were inundated as torrents of water surged from higher ground, dragging debris, mud, and vehicles through the island’s winding alleys and beachfront promenades. The picturesque setting, often photographed for its sunlit charm, was rendered unrecognisable under stormy skies and murky floodwaters.

Local authorities responded by mobilising emergency crews to clear roads and assess structural damage. Schools on both islands were ordered to remain shut, while traffic was restricted to emergency and utility vehicles. In Mykonos, though damage was somewhat less severe, similar flooding was reported in coastal areas. Videos from the popular resort town showed water racing past seaside cafes and restaurants, forcing closures and emergency clean-up efforts.

Excavators were deployed to help carve drainage paths through blocked roadways, and alerts were repeatedly issued instructing residents and visitors to remain indoors. Although no fatalities were reported as of the latest updates, several properties sustained water damage, and tourism-dependent businesses are expected to face economic repercussions.

Why are flash floods becoming more frequent in Greek island regions?

Flash flooding in Mediterranean island regions like Paros and Mykonos has become a growing concern in recent years, with scientists linking the rise in extreme weather events to broader patterns of climate change. Warmer sea surface temperatures and shifting wind patterns have increased the frequency of intense rainfall episodes, while the topography of many Greek islands—characterised by narrow valleys and limited drainage—makes them particularly vulnerable to sudden flooding.

Historically, the Greek islands have seen occasional winter storms, especially from December to February. However, the recent trend of violent springtime storms has raised alarm among meteorologists and local governments. Experts warn that outdated infrastructure and inadequate flood mitigation systems exacerbate the impact of such events. Many drainage systems were not designed to accommodate the volume of water generated by modern extreme weather events, and urban development in low-lying coastal zones has increased the exposure of critical infrastructure.

How have authorities and residents responded to the emergency?

The immediate response to the Paros and Mykonos floods was swift, with local municipal teams, civil protection agencies, and volunteer groups coordinating cleanup efforts. Authorities prioritised clearing roads, restoring electricity and water services, and providing support to affected households. In Paros, mud removal operations began in Naousa within hours of the storm’s passage, while in Mykonos, restoration teams were deployed to protect historical sites and high-traffic tourist areas.

The Greek Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection confirmed that no tourists were harmed but emphasised the importance of adhering to local alerts in the event of future weather disruptions. Travel advisories were issued locally, but flights and ferry services to the islands continued operating with limited delays. That said, several tourist attractions, restaurants, and retail establishments were temporarily shuttered, and travellers were advised to confirm accommodation and service availability before arrival.

The events prompted a renewed call for investment in climate adaptation infrastructure. Regional authorities have reiterated the need for updated flood management systems, including improved drainage networks and more robust early-warning capabilities. In the longer term, climate resilience planning is expected to become a core component of regional development strategies for island municipalities.

Is it safe to travel to Paros and Mykonos after the storm?

While the flooding caused considerable disruption, travel to Paros and Mykonos remains feasible for most visitors. Both islands are accustomed to recovering quickly from seasonal weather events, and their economies depend heavily on maintaining accessibility for international and domestic tourists. However, prospective travellers are advised to monitor updates from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service and follow guidance from local tourism boards and operators.

The UK Foreign Office has not issued a formal travel warning specific to Paros or Mykonos, but it recommends that British nationals remain alert to evolving weather conditions and consult their tour operators or insurance providers when making travel plans. Similarly, the U.S. Embassy in Athens advised American tourists to check for local alerts and avoid low-lying areas during storm activity.

Tourism businesses in both Paros and Mykonos are already undertaking repairs, and cleanup efforts are proceeding at pace. Hotel operators have reassured guests of their commitment to maintaining safety standards, and most ferry lines, airports, and ports are operational. Nonetheless, last-minute changes in itinerary may be required depending on individual service disruptions.

What does this mean for tourism and the future of Greek island infrastructure?

The storm and subsequent flooding have reignited debate around the resilience of Greek island infrastructure amid mounting climate challenges. While tourism remains the lifeblood of islands like Paros and Mykonos, their built environments have not always kept pace with evolving environmental risks. Experts suggest that without significant upgrades to drainage systems, zoning regulations, and emergency preparedness protocols, similar weather events will continue to cause disruptions and economic strain.

Greece has experienced multiple instances of extreme weather in recent years, including deadly wildfires, heatwaves, and floods, which have highlighted the urgent need for systemic climate adaptation measures. In response, the Greek government has launched a National Climate Law and increased funding for green transition initiatives, but implementation at the local level remains a work in progress.

For tourists, the takeaway is not to avoid travel altogether but to be aware of potential risks, particularly when visiting during transitional weather periods. For local authorities and businesses, the recent flooding is a call to accelerate resilience planning, invest in modern infrastructure, and integrate sustainability into long-term development goals. The storm of March 2025 may have passed, but its impact will resonate as a stark reminder of the new environmental normal facing Mediterranean travel hotspots.