Torrential rains that affected the area of Thessaly in Greece in early September lead to devastating consequences in all disaster-affected zones and villiages in Volos, Pilion, Trikala, Karditsa and in the Thessalia plain region. A week after the devastating floods, the amount of mud damage to thousands of homes and hundreds of businesses has increased dramatically.
As of September 12, 15 people lost their lives and an additional two people are reported missing. The total number of casualties cannot yet be finalised as the water levels continue to recede. Residents who were displaced due to flooding in their villages were directed to municipal or regional hospitality areas and then moved to hotels.
To date, over 260,000 people have remained with no drinking water in almost 500 villages for an extended period of time, according to last Caritas Situation Report as more than 15,000 dead animals were cremated and fear of contamination in flooded areas was very high.
Hundreds of villages and houses vanished below the water and local authorities report that several people, who were left without electricity, food and water, had to be airlifted from their homes as part of rescue efforts. Hotels, cars, transport companies, large shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and other businesses were also severely disrupted following the floods in Greece.
Other infrastructure including rail, bridges and roads have also been damaged. The biggest infrastructure damage was the rail link between Athens and Thessaloniki. The damage to the rail network is huge and it will take a long time to repair.
Caritas Hellas, one of the member organisations of Caritas Internationalis, has played a pivotal role in providing immediate relief and facilitating long-term recovery in the aftermath of floods. Mobile teams assessed needs in Larissa, Karditsa and other surrounding villages and settlements.
Based on the outcomes of the needs assessment, Caritas Hellas organised a collection or procurement for shoes, clothing, underwear and mattresses to meet the immediate needs of affected people from a few diocesan Caritas offices. In addition, Caritas Hellas is also providing psychological support to people suffering trauma due to profound loss or fear of the future.
Responding to the request of the Social Services of the Municipality of Larissa, a team of local Caritas social workers was temporarily placed in the area, in order to provide assistance to affected citizens in submitting online applications for compensation.
Caritas Internationalis commends the collective dedication of Caritas Hellas employees and volunteers, which arises from a deep-rooted belief in the importance of upholding human dignity and their commitment to enhancing the lives of those in need.