Greece issues flood prevention directives for 2026-2027 winter

The General Secretariat for Civil Protection in Greece has issued urgent instructions to regional and municipal authorities to prepare for the 2026-2027 winter period. The directives focus on mitigating the risk of flooding through immediate preventive actions and operational readiness.

Regional authorities are tasked with inspecting and cleaning watercourse beds, maintaining flood protection works, and managing stormwater networks. Municipalities are required to maintain drainage systems, including manholes and pipes, particularly in urban areas. There is a specific emphasis on regions where natural vegetation has been destroyed by recent forest fires, as these areas face higher risks.

Additionally, local authorities must update Special Organized Citizen Evacuation Plans and maintain accurate contact lists for relevant agencies, contractor registries, and available machinery. Technical services are also directed to map high-risk areas, such as where road networks intersect with watercourses, to ensure safe refuge locations are identified for citizens.