Lasithi Plateau flooding causes massive agricultural damage

Severe weather has caused extensive flooding in the Lasithi Plateau, resulting in catastrophic damage to local agriculture. Initial estimates suggest that over 4,000 acres of potato crops have been submerged, with losses exceeding 15,000 tons of produce. The total economic damage is estimated to approach 20 million euros, affecting more than 2,000 producers.

The flooding has transformed vast agricultural areas into lakes of mud and debris, making it difficult for farmers to access their fields even with heavy machinery. In response to the crisis, the Copernicus Emergency Management Service was activated to map the extent of the damage.

The Agricultural Association of the Lasithi Plateau is demanding immediate support, including 100% compensation for losses, tax and insurance relief, and a freeze on loan obligations. Producers are also calling for infrastructure improvements, such as the cleaning of drainage channels and rivers, and better management of floodgates during extreme weather events. A government delegation, led by Infrastructure Minister Christos Dimas, is scheduled to visit Crete to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts.