- Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) issues weather alerts for strong northerly winds up to 8 Beaufort in Crete and 9 Beaufort in the Northern Cyclades for Friday, August 14.
- Heraklion Central Port Authority places all personnel, rescue craft, and land units on high alert.
- Maritime officials instruct boat owners to secure moorings and advise small craft, fishing vessels, and leisure boats to avoid sea activities.
- Temperatures across Crete will range from 23°C to 30°C, reaching up to 35°C in the south.
- Travelers using ferries between the mainland, Cyclades, and Crete are advised to prepare for rough seas and potential schedule updates.
A severe meltemi wind system is set to buffet Crete and the Cyclades on Friday, August 14, prompting local maritime authorities to issue safety advisories for vessel operators and seaside holidaymakers. Coming at the absolute peak of the mid-August travel rush, the high winds bring rough sea conditions to the South Aegean.
According to the weather forecast from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY), northern winds will gust consistently between 7 and 8 Beaufort across Crete, while local gusts in the Northern Cyclades could reach up to 9 Beaufort. While skies across the Cyclades remain clear, northern Crete faces localized cloud cover with potential brief rain showers. Temperatures will hover between 23°C and 30°C on the northern coast, reaching up to 35°C in southern regions.
Port Authorities Issue Advisory & Safety Guidelines
In response to the forecast, the Heraklion Central Port Authority has placed its entire operational staff, rescue craft, and land vehicles on emergency readiness to handle potential maritime calls. Harbor officials have instructed tugboats, salvage vessels, and coastal rescue units to remain prepared for immediate deployment.
Heraklion Central Port Authority Directives
- Moorings: Owners of berthed ships and small boats must double-check and secure all lines immediately.
- Navigation: Commercial fishing boats, pleasure craft, and small vessels currently at sea are strongly advised to cease operations and head to safe harbor while the bulletin remains active.
- Media outreach: Local media outlets are asked to broadcast safety updates regularly to inform residents and travelers.
- Emergency response: Floating and land-based Coast Guard teams are stationed across strategic ports to assist distressed vessels or individuals.
Here are the core emergency numbers for Greece, including specific local ones for Crete:
Universal Emergency Numbers
- 112 – European Emergency Number (Best for tourists/foreigners; multilingual support for police, fire, medical, and coast guard)
- 100 – Police (Astynomia)
- 166 – Ambulance / Emergency Medical Services (EKAB)
- 199 – Fire Brigade (Pyrosvestiki)
- 108 – Coast Guard (Limeniko Soma — critical for sea emergencies)
Local Crete Port Authorities (Coast Guard Command Centers)
- Heraklion Central Port Authority: +30 2813 406900 / +30 2813 406920
- Chania Central Port Authority: +30 28210 98888 / +30 28210 89240
- Souda Port Authority: +30 28210 89240
- Rethymno Port Authority: +30 28310 22276
- Sitia Port Authority: +30 28430 22310
- Agios Nikolaos Port Authority: +30 28410 22312
Major Regional Hospitals in Crete
- General Hospital of Heraklion (PAGNI / University Hospital): +30 2813 392111
- Venizelio General Hospital (Heraklion): +30 2813 408000
- General Hospital of Chania (St. George): +30 28213 42000
- General Hospital of Rethymno: +30 28313 42100
- General Hospital of Sitia: +30 28433 40100
Travelers scheduled to board ferries across the South Aegean should stay in direct contact with port authorities or local travel agencies, as high winds in open waters can lead to itinerary adjustments or sailing holds.