Bad weather is approaching: 112 message to protect citizens

On August 19 at 12:15, residents of Patras received a warning on their mobile phones by calling 112 about dangerous weather conditions.

The 112 message was also issued in a large area of ​​Western Greece. According to the warning message, extreme weather conditions are forecast until midday tomorrow. The authorities urge citizens to follow the instructions of the authorities. Storms, thunderstorms and showers are expected.

Following an emergency alert about the worsening weather, the General Secretariat of Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crises and Civil Protection is in a state of heightened alert to immediately cope with the consequences of severe weather eventspredicted by meteorologists. The General Secretariat of Civil Protection has informed the competent state bodies dealing with official matters, as well as the regions and municipalities of the country, so that they are “on guard”.

Citizens are advised to be especially vigilant in ensuring that they take self-protective measures against risks arising from the occurrence of severe weather events.

What to do during a severe storm

In areas where heavy rain, storms or hurricane-force winds are expected:

• Secure any objects that could cause damage or injury if blown away.
• Make sure that the gutters and downspouts in your home are clear and functioning properly.
• Avoid crossing streams on foot or by vehicle during storms and rain, as well as for several hours after the storm has ended.
• Avoid outdoor work and activities in marine and coastal areas during severe weather events (risk of lightning strikes).
• Take immediate shelter in a building or car during a hail storm and do not leave the safe area until you are sure that the storm has passed. Hail can also be very dangerous for animals.
• Avoid walking under large trees, under canopies, and be careful in public areas where there are light objects (such as pots, glass, etc.) that could cause injury during a storm.
• Please follow the instructions of local authorities such as road authorities etc. conscientiously.

How do we behave during strong thunderstorm activity?

In areas with intense thunderstorm activity:

1. If you are at home:

Do not hold electrical appliances or the telephone in your hands, as lightning may pass through the wires. Disconnect TVs from the antenna and power source.
Avoid touching water pipes (in the kitchen, bathroom) as they are good conductors of electricity.

2. If you are in a car:

• Park your vehicle on the side of the road, away from trees that could fall on it.
• Stay inside and turn on your brake lights (hazard lights) until the storm passes.
• Close windows and do not touch metal objects.
• Avoid flooded roads.

3. If you are outdoors:

• Take shelter in a building, car, or immediately sit on the ground without lying down.
• If you are in a forest, take shelter under the strong branches of low trees.
• Never take shelter under a tall tree in an open area.
• Avoid ravines due to risk of flooding.
• Avoid standing near utility poles, power lines, telephone lines and fences.
• Keep away from metal objects (e.g. cars, bicycles, camping equipment, etc.).
• Stay away from rivers, lakes and other bodies of water.
• If you are in the sea, get out of the water immediately.
• If you are isolated on the plain and feel your hair standing on end (signaling that lightning is about to strike), sit down, crouch down (to minimize body surface area and contact with the ground), and remove any metal objects you are wearing.

Information and announcements about the current situation and the passability of the road network on the website EL.AS. www.astynomia.grFor further information and instructions on self-protection against severe weather conditions, citizens can visit the website of the General Secretariat of Civil Protection: civilprotection.gov.gr.

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