In recent years, the picturesque region of Evia – Greece’s second-largest island known for its lush landscapes and vibrant waterfront communities, has faced a severe escalation in extreme weather conditions.
Most recently, in September 2023, a staggering 400 cubic meters of water fell per hectare within just 24 hours; at least eight villages were evacuated and several areas were affected, including the capital, Chalkida, Psachna, Politika, Vasilika, Pefki, Rovies, Mantoudi, Istiaia and more. The compounding effects of climate change, resulting in wildfires followed by thunderstorms, torrential rain, extreme winds and hail, have left these areas grappling with unprecedented environmental and social challenges that are yet to be addressed.
From Flames to Floods: A Biblical Disaster
Evia’s troubles began with wildfires, a recurring nightmare that has increasingly plagued the region. Due to the dry conditions, exacerbated rising temperatures in the summer months and the government’s overall lack of preparation for such events, these fires completely stripped the land of its natural barriers. The lack of vegetation has left the soil unable to absorb water, priming the landscape for subsequent disasters.
Following the wildfires, multiple storms (Thalia, Ballos, Daniel and Elias) have swept through the area in the last four years, each bringing its wrath of heavy rains. These storms and unimaginable floods have not only tested the resilience of the communities but have also highlighted the vulnerability of Evia’s ecosystem.
Impact on Waterfront Communities
Evia’s waterfront communities, being one of the lowest income areas of Greece already, were devastated. Areas that were otherwise bustling with holiday-makers and local commerce are now facing long-term economic challenges for residents relying on tourism, agriculture or fishing, and for the community as a whole.
Homes, businesses, and infrastructure suffered extensive damage, and cars were submerged in water. A significant portion of the local production and livestock was destroyed, and human lives were also lost. Even as the effect of the latest storm was starting to subside, streams had overflowed, and mudslides, torrents, tree trunks, and other drifting materials had disrupted traffic in many parts of the road network.
Government and Community Response
In response to these crises, local and national authorities have taken steps to boost the region’s resilience. Efforts include one-time emergency financial aid for all businesses and non-profit organisations affected by the latest floods, a temporary housing solution for victims whose homes were completely damaged or were classified dangerous to live in, as well as financial aid for property owners and assistance for basic living needs and small repairs.
Community initiatives also sprung up during those difficult times, with individuals locally, nationally and internationally coming together to support clean-up efforts and raise supportive funds.
Having said that, the lives of those affected will never be the same and some of the damage is irreversible, so as a government, there really needs to be a bigger focus on prevention, promptness and improved urgent aid.
Looking to the Future
As Evia looks to the future, the focus is on adapting to the new norm of frequent extreme weather events. At the end of 2023, new coastal protection projects by the Ministry of Environment and Energy were underway with the aim of extending the breakwater system and shielding the coastline with natural stones to prevent future erosion – mainly in Pefki, and Kefales Asminiou. In the beginning of 2024, Infrastructure Minister, Christos Staikouras, also announced plans for the restoration of regional roads, and reconstruction of pavements, bridges and the coastline surface.
A couple of months ago, there were still questions at the Greek Parliament, directed to the Minister of Agricultural Development and Food, Eleftherios Avgenakis, highlighting the need for immediate financial support for Evia’s local olive producers seeing as the wildfires and floods not only ruined their harvest and made the grounds fruitless, but also damaged their equipment and machinery and they’re yet to receive compensation from the government. The situation is far from ideal.
Scientists, water-management specialists and environmentalists across the country are working to study the impacts of climate change in the region and apply crisis management tactics that could offer some relief.
The resilience of Evia’s communities and their resolve to rebuild and prepare for future challenges stands as a testament to the human spirit. Yet, the increasing frequency of these extreme weather events serves as a harsh reminder of the broader implications of climate change and lack of environmental awareness, not just for Evia and Greece but for the entire world.
Sources:
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