Storm Byron hits Greece's Attica region, causing massive floods

By Magda Panoutsopoulou

ATHENS (AA) - A major storm dubbed Byron battered Greece’s Attica region Thursday, causing massive floods and disruptions throughout Athens.

The fire department received at least 90 calls in the capital to pump water and help residents stranded in houses and cars.

Local media reported major road disruptions and traffic jams all around Athens, prompting authorities to issue an emergency 112 warning message from the European Emergency Number System asking citizens to remain alert and avoid movements.

The storm moved into the Attica region in the afternoon after passing through several other regions, including the Greek island of Rhodes in the southeastern Aegean Sea and the west of the country as well as Crete Island, Central Macedonia, Thessaly and Evia, leaving behind overflowing rivers, landslides and stranded citizens.

The National Weather Service said the storm is expected to continue into Saturday morning, while schools will remain closed throughout Attica on Friday.