Hi, on our blog, we will talk about extreme winds and storms in Greece and Poland

Storms in Poland

Thunderstorms in Poland occur most often from May to August, mainly during the warm summer months. They are characterized by heavy rainfall, hail and strong winds that can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. Storms are often associated with weather fronts, and their effects include local flooding, damage to infrastructure, and threats to human health and life. In 2020, strong storms took place, causing significant damage in Małopolska and Silesia. Therefore, it is important to monitor weather forecasts and put in place effective crisis management strategies.

Duration of thunderstorms in Poland

Thunderstorms in Poland occur most often in the summer, mainly from May to August. Their highest intensity is observed in June and July, when warm air meets cold weather fronts, which is conducive to the formation of thunderstorms. Storms can also occur in spring and autumn, especially during transitional periods, but they are less intense then. It is also worth noting that storms in Poland can be violent, and their effects, such as heavy rainfall, hail and strong winds, can lead to serious damage.

Types of Storms in Poland

1. Convective Storms

2. Frontal Storms

3. Hail Storms

4. Tropical Storms (rare)

5. Lightning Storms

6. Squall Storms


Convective Storms

Convective storms occur due to the intense heating of the Earth’s surface, which leads to the rising of warm, moist air. As this air cools, it forms cumulonimbus clouds.

Conditions for Formation

– Surface Heating: Mainly occurs on warm days.

– Humidity: High humidity promotes condensation.

– Atmospheric Instability: Allows air to rise.

Characteristics:

– Intense Rainfall: Short but violent downpours.

– Hail: Can occur, causing damage to crops and infrastructure.

– Lightning: High electrical activity leads to atmospheric discharges.

Consequences:

– Flooding: Localized flooding on roads.

– Damage: Damage to buildings and infrastructure.

– Hazards to People: Risk of injuries from lightning and strong winds.

Convective storms are common in Poland, especially in summer, necessitating monitoring and education on safety in such conditions.

Frontal Storms

Frontal storms arise when different air masses meet, usually warm and cold. The warmer air rises over the cooler one, leading to condensation of water vapor and the formation of storm clouds, mainly cumulonimbus.

Characteristics:

– Intense Rainfall: Can be violent and short-lived.

– Strong Winds: Accompanying storms can reach high speeds.

– Lightning: Frequent electrical activity.

Consequences:

– Flooding: Localized flooding, especially in cities.

– Damage: Damage to buildings and infrastructure.

– Hazards to People: Risk of injuries from lightning and strong winds.

Frontal storms occur in Poland year-round, and their monitoring and proper preparation are crucial to minimize impacts.

Hail Storms

Hail storms are meteorological phenomena that occur when strong updrafts in cumulonimbus clouds lift raindrops upwards, where they freeze and form hailstones. When these stones become too heavy, they fall to the ground.

Characteristics:

– Intense Precipitation: Hail can occur suddenly, causing significant losses.

– Hail Size: Can range from small pellets to large stones, reaching several centimeters in diameter.

Consequences:

– Crop Damage: Hail can destroy plants, leading to agricultural losses.

– Infrastructure Damage: Damage to roofs, windows in buildings, and vehicles.

– Hazards to People: Risk of injuries from hail impacts.

Hail storms are particularly common in summer during periods of intense atmospheric heating.

Tropical Storms

Tropical storms in Poland are a rare phenomenon, usually occurring during warm periods when air masses from the south bring higher temperatures and humidity. They form when warm, moist air meets cooler masses, leading to intense convection.

Characteristics:

– Intense Rainfall: Strong, prolonged rainfall can occur.

– Strong Winds: Accompanying storms can reach high speeds, leading to damage.

– Electrical Activity: Frequent atmospheric discharges.

Consequences:

– Flooding: Localized flooding can lead to infrastructure problems.

– Damage: Damage to buildings, trees, and power lines.

– Hazards to People: Risk of injuries from wind and discharges.

Although tropical storms are rare, their effects can be significant, making weather condition monitoring essential.

Lightning Storms

Lightning storms are meteorological phenomena characterized by intense rainfall, strong winds, and electrical activity. They occur when warm, moist air rises and interacts with cold masses, forming cumulonimbus clouds.

Characteristics:

– Atmospheric Discharges: Lightning results from the potential difference between clouds and the ground.

– Intense Rainfall: Accompanied by sudden, heavy downpours.

Consequences:

– Life Threats: Lightning can cause fires and injuries.

– Infrastructure Damage: Damage to power lines and buildings.

Lightning storms occur in Poland year-round, but are particularly intense in summer, requiring monitoring and preparation for hazards.

Squall Storms

Squall storms are intense, short-lived atmospheric phenomena characterized by sudden and strong wind gusts, often accompanied by heavy rainfall. They mainly form due to local temperature increases and atmospheric instability, promoting intense convection.

Characteristics:

– Strong Winds: Gusts can exceed 100 km/h, leading to damage.

– Intense Precipitation: Often associated with sudden but short-lived rain.

Consequences:

– Infrastructure Damage: Damage to roofs, power lines, and trees.

– Hazards to People: Strong winds can lead to injuries and transportation disruptions.

Squall storms mainly occur in Poland during summer, and their sudden nature necessitates monitoring of weather conditions and preparation for potential threats.

 

 Examples of Storms in Poland

Here are 10 examples of storms in Poland:

– Summer storms in 2020

– Hurricane „Ksawery” (2017)

– Hail storms in 2019 in Małopolska

– Storms in August 2015

– Storms in July 2019

– Hurricane „Sabina” (2020)

– Lightning storms in 2014

– Storms in 2008 in Pomerania

– Rainfall storms in 2010

– Storms in June 2013

Detailed Description of the Most Severe Storm in Poland: Hurricane „Ksawery” (2017)

Hurricane „Ksawery,” which swept across Poland in December 2017, was one of the most destructive phenomena of that period. It brought strong winds reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h, resulting in significant destruction. Thousands of trees were uprooted across the country, and infrastructure damage affected not only homes but also power lines, leading to blackouts in many regions. Emergency services intervened thousands of times, and evacuations involved residents of the most threatened areas. Material losses were enormous, and the effects of the hurricane were felt long after the storm had passed.

Consequences of storms in Poland

 

—

1. Floods

Example: Storms with intense rainfall in 2010 in Małopolska, which caused flash floods.
Consequences: Submerged houses and infrastructure, damage to agricultural crops, and the necessity of evacuating residents.

2. Infrastructure Damage

Example: Hurricane „Ksawery” in 2017, which brought strong winds and rainfall.
Consequences: Uprooted trees and damaged power lines, leading to blackouts in many regions. Destroyed roofs of buildings, damaged roads, and bridges.

–

  1. Threat to Life and Health

Example: Lightning storms that can cause electrocution.
Consequences: Injuries from lightning strikes, and in extreme cases, fatalities. Increased number of medical interventions.

  1. Damage to Agriculture

Example: Hail storms that occurred in 2021 in the Lubusz Voivodeship.
Consequences: Damage to crops, impacting yields and causing financial losses for farmers. Increase in food prices due to smaller harvests

The most shabby cities in Poland

Poland has experienced many catastrophic storms that had serious consequences in various cities. In 2019, Wrocław faced intense rainfall that flooded many districts, including the Old Town, causing significant material losses. Opole also suffered in 2010 from violent storms that led to localized floods, destroying infrastructure and homes. In 2019, Katowice experienced strong winds that uprooted trees and damaged power lines, paralyzing transportation. During Hurricane „Ksawery” in 2017, Poznań dealt with severe damage, while Gdańsk in 2020 faced intense rainfall that caused inundations. In each of these cases, rescue operations and reconstruction took many months, and the losses were immense.

 

Wrocław

Poznań

Opole

Katowice

Gdańsk

In 2019, Wrocław faced severe consequences from storms that brought heavy rainfall and strong winds. Many districts, particularly the Old Town and the city center, experienced localized flooding, resulting in basements being inundated and roads becoming impassable. Emergency services had to take swift action to evacuate residents from the affected areas. The material losses were significant, impacting both residential buildings and public infrastructure. The recovery took several months, and the city implemented new solutions for managing rainwater to minimize the risk of similar incidents in the future

 

Poznań was affected by the hurricane „Ksawery” in December 2017, which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. Winds reaching up to 100 km/h caused many trees to fall and damaged power lines, leading to blackouts in various parts of the city. Emergency services were forced to intervene to clear the debris and ensure the safety of residents. Many streets were blocked by fallen branches and damaged structures. The material losses were significant, and the reconstruction of infrastructure took several months, impacting the daily lives of residents

 

Opole experienced severe consequences from storms in 2010, when heavy rainfall led to catastrophic flooding. Water flooded the streets, and many homes and basements were inundated, forcing residents to evacuate. The situation was so dramatic that the city authorities declared a state of emergency. Emergency services had to intervene, organizing assistance for affected families. The damage affected not only residences but also infrastructure, including roads and bridges. The material losses were enormous, and the recovery process took many months, having a lasting impact on the local community and economy.

Katowice were severely affected by storms in 2019, which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. Winds exceeding 100 km/h caused numerous trees to fall, blocking streets and disrupting transportation. Many buildings were damaged, and power lines were downed, leading to power outages. Emergency services were fully mobilized, removing debris and assisting residents. The city authorities declared a state of emergency, and the recovery of infrastructure took several months, forcing residents to change their daily routines and plans. The long-term effects of the storms impacted the local economy and social life

 

Gdańsk was severely impacted by storms in 2020, which brought heavy rainfall and strong winds. Many areas of the city experienced flooding, with streets turning into rivers, making transportation difficult. Basements of buildings were inundated, and residents had to deal with the consequences of the flooding. Emergency services quickly responded, organizing relief efforts and removing the aftermath of the disaster. As a result of these events, the material losses were significant, and the recovery of infrastructure took several months. The authorities in Gdańsk also began working on improving drainage systems to better cope with future storms.

 

Preventive Actions Before Storms in Poland

Preventive actions before storms in Poland aim to minimize risks and protect life and property. A key element is monitoring weather conditions, which is provided by the IMGW (Institute of Meteorology and Water Management). In the case of forecasted storms, these institutions issue warnings that are published in the media and sent to local emergency services.

Public education is equally important; information campaigns are organized to teach residents how to respond in emergency situations. Cooperation with local authorities, fire services, and medical services allows for the creation of evacuation plans and crisis response procedures.

Additionally, residents should ensure their homes are properly secured by removing loose objects from the surroundings and checking the condition of electrical installations. Such preventive actions can significantly reduce the impacts of storms and ensure safety.

Storms in Greece

Storms in Greece are a common phenomenon, especially during the summer months, when hot air from the Aegean Sea interacts with cooler air masses. These conditions promote the formation of intense storms, often accompanied by heavy rainfall, thunder, and lightning. An example is the tropical storms that occurred in 2018 during Hurricane „Zorba,” which caused extensive damage, especially on the islands, where coastal erosion led to land loss and infrastructure destruction.

Storms in Greece also impact agriculture, causing damage to crops. Authorities implement weather monitoring systems and warnings for residents and tourists to minimize the effects. In the case of extreme events, rescue operations are organized to ensure the safety of those affected and to mitigate the aftermath of disasters.

Most Affected Cities During Storms in Greece

These cities often become places where residents must contend with harsh weather conditions. Storms, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall, can cause significant damage. In such moments, community solidarity plays a crucial role, as residents collectively rebuild their homes and infrastructure. Local authorities and charitable organizations also contribute to support by providing essential resources and aid to those most affected. Despite the difficulties, Greeks are known for their resilience and ability to face adversity with hope for a better tomorrow.

Effects of Storms in Athens

Athens experienced severe effects from storms in 2018, particularly during Hurricane „Zorba,” which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. Many districts, including popular tourist areas, were affected by local flooding that inundated streets, shops, and basements of homes. Water entered residences, forcing residents to evacuate. Emergency services were on high alert, conducting rescue operations and clearing the aftermath of the disaster.

The damage included not only private property but also urban infrastructure such as bridges and roads, significantly hampering communication. Material losses were immense, and many families faced long-term consequences from these events. In response to the disaster, city authorities implemented programs aimed at improving drainage systems and preparing for future threats associated with extreme weather conditions.

Effects of Storms in Patras

Patras, Greece’s third-largest city, suffered serious consequences from storms in 2017 when intense rainfall caused local flooding. Water flooded many neighborhoods, and some streets became impassable, creating chaos in public transportation. Not only streets but also basements of buildings and commercial spaces were inundated, leading to significant material losses for residents and businesses.

Emergency services responded quickly, organizing aid and damage removal efforts. Residents had to cope with consequences such as power and water outages. The authorities in Patras declared a state of emergency, which allowed for quicker activation of support and financial resources for reconstruction. Following these tragic events, the city began implementing plans to improve flood prevention infrastructure to better handle future threats.

Effects of Storms in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki faced severe effects from storms in 2019 when heavy rainfall and strong winds hit the city, causing widespread damage. Streets turned into raging torrents, and many homes and businesses were flooded. The situation was dramatic, with residents struggling with flooded basements and disruptions to daily life.

Emergency services took immediate action, organizing flood response efforts and providing assistance to those affected. Problems with power and water outages exacerbated the difficulties. The city authorities declared a state of emergency, enabling the mobilization of additional resources and funds for repairs. After these events, local authorities focused on improving drainage systems and monitoring weather conditions to minimize the risk of future disasters. Thessaloniki became a notable example of the need for adaptation to changing climate and extreme weather conditions.

Effects of Storms in Volos

Volos, a picturesque city in Greece, was severely impacted by storms in 2020, which brought heavy rainfall and strong winds. The weather conditions caused flash floods that inundated many districts of the city, with water entering homes and businesses, destroying residents’ property. Streets became impassable, creating chaos in communication and daily life.

Emergency services immediately took action, conducting rescue operations and removing the effects of the disaster. The authorities in Volos declared a state of emergency, which allowed for quicker mobilization of resources and funds for reconstruction. The damage also affected local infrastructure, including roads and bridges, requiring urgent repairs. Following the storm, city officials focused on strengthening drainage systems and developing crisis management strategies to better prepare for future threats posed by extreme weather conditions. Volos became an example of the importance of adapting to a changing climate.

Effects of Storms in Rhodes

Rhodes, a popular Greek tourist island, was severely affected by storms in 2021, which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall. These phenomena caused significant damage, including flooding in many parts of the island. Streets and beaches turned into rushing streams, threatening the safety of residents and tourists.

As a result of the storms, many buildings, including hotels and service establishments, suffered, negatively impacting the local tourism sector, which is crucial for Rhodes’s economy. Emergency services had to take swift action to remove the effects of the disaster, providing assistance to affected residents and tourists.

Island authorities declared a state of emergency, which allowed for quicker mobilization of resources and funds for reconstruction. After these tragic events, Rhodes focused on modernizing infrastructure and strengthening crisis management systems to better cope with future threats related to extreme weather conditions.

Effects of Storms in Greece

The effects of winds and storms in Greece are significant and multifaceted. Intense storms, especially those associated with hurricanes, can cause serious damage to infrastructure, including damage to buildings, bridges, and roads. An example is Hurricane „Zorba” in 2018, which brought heavy rainfall and wind, leading to coastal erosion and property losses.

Storms often also cause flooding that threatens settlements and agricultural land, resulting in substantial financial losses for farmers. Strong winds, such as Meltemi, can disrupt shipping and maritime transport, impacting tourism, a key sector of the Greek economy. In response to these threats, local authorities implement crisis management plans and warning systems to minimize the impacts of these extreme phenomena.

Preventive Actions Before Storms in Greece

Preventive actions before storms in Greece are crucial, especially during the summer season when intense storms and hurricanes occur. Local authorities, including the National Meteorological Agency, monitor weather forecasts and issue warnings that are communicated to residents and the media. Alert systems are used to inform about upcoming threats.

Public education plays an important role; informational campaigns teach citizens how to respond in emergency situations. Collaboration with local emergency services and fire departments allows for the creation of evacuation plans and organization of training for residents.

Additionally, Greek authorities recommend securing buildings against strong winds, for example, by removing loose objects from balconies and terraces. These actions can help reduce the effects of storms and protect the lives and property of residents.

Winds in Greece

Extreme winds in Greece, often related to the local climate, have serious consequences. The „Meltemi” wind occurs in the summer, bringing strong gusts that can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. Although Meltemi provides relief from the heat, its strength can cause problems, especially in navigation, threatening the safety of boats. In recent years, Greece has also experienced hurricanes and tropical storms, such as Hurricane „Zorba” in 2018, which caused significant damage, coastal erosion, and material losses.

Winds in Poland and Greece

Föhn Wind

The föhn wind is a warm, dry wind that primarily occurs in mountainous regions, including Poland, especially in the Tatra Mountains. It blows from the south and forms when air moves over the mountains. As it descends from higher altitudes, it warms up and loses moisture, leading to a significant increase in temperature in the valleys.

This phenomenon is known for sudden and strong gusts that can lead to unpredictable weather conditions. The föhn often causes local warming and, in some cases, contributes to occurrences such as wildfires.

In Greece, the föhn wind is not typical; instead, other types of winds, such as sirocco and mistral, occur, each with different sources and characteristics. Thus, the föhn is a phenomenon more characteristic of Poland, particularly in mountainous areas.

Foehn Wind

The foehn wind is a warm, dry wind that blows from the direction of the mountains, mainly in Alpine and Carpathian regions. In Poland, it is particularly evident in the Tatra Mountains, where it forms as air rises over the mountains. When the air descends on the other side of the mountain range, it warms up and loses moisture, leading to a significant increase in temperature in the valleys.

The foehn is characterized by sudden and strong gusts that can influence the local climate, causing temperature spikes and reduced humidity. It is often associated with feelings of euphoria and improved mood, but it can also trigger headaches and other ailments in some individuals.

In Greece, the foehn wind is not as common as in Poland. There, other winds, such as mistral and sirocco, have different sources and properties. Therefore, the foehn wind is a phenomenon more characteristic of Poland, especially in mountainous areas.

Westerly Wind

The westerly wind blows from the western direction and is one of the most commonly occurring types of winds in both Poland and Greece, influencing the climate of both countries. In Poland, the westerly wind brings moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, often leading to rainfall, particularly during the autumn and winter seasons. This type of wind significantly impacts weather conditions in the central and western parts of the country, contributing to a reduction in temperature differences between summer and winter.

In Greece, the westerly wind also has its significance, particularly in the context of the Meltemi wind, which blows from the northwest in summer. The westerly wind in Greece can bring warm, moist air, influencing local climate conditions, but it is not as dominant as in Poland.

Bora

Bora is a strong, cold wind that blows from the northern or northeastern direction. It is particularly intense in mountainous areas, where the air descends from heights. Bora is known for its violent gusts that can reach high speeds, and its effects often lead to sudden drops in temperature and significant cooling.

In Poland, bora occurs mainly in mountainous areas, such as the Tatra and Bieszczady Mountains, but it is less common than other types of winds. In Poland’s mountainous regions, it can bring frigid air, impacting winter weather conditions.

In Greece, bora is much better known and occurs regularly, especially in the Adriatic region and the northern parts of the country, such as Thassos and Chios. There, this wind can bring very strong gusts, causing significant changes in atmospheric conditions.

Mistral

Mistral is a strong, cold wind that blows from the northern or northwestern direction, particularly in the Rhône Valley region of France. It is characterized by high speeds and is known for bringing clear and cool weather, along with significant drops in temperature. Mistral occurs when cold air descends from the mountains, resulting in intense winds that can last from several days to a few weeks.

In Greece, mistral also occurs, especially in northern regions and over the Aegean Sea. It influences climate conditions by bringing cooler air in summer and can affect local weather systems.

In Poland, mistral is not a typical phenomenon and does not occur in the same form. Poland has other winds, such as föhn and foehn, which have different sources and characteristics.

Sirocco

Sirocco is a hot, dry wind that blows from the southern direction, usually from the Sahara towards the Mediterranean Sea. It is particularly known in southern Europe, including Greece, where it brings high temperatures along with dust and sand. Sirocco can cause significant air pollution and reduce visibility.

In Greece, sirocco occurs regularly, especially in spring and summer, influencing the local climate. It can bring heat and cause shortness of breath and other health issues, especially for those with respiratory problems.

In Poland, sirocco is not a typical phenomenon. Although warm winds from the south can occasionally occur, they do not have the characteristics or intensity of sirocco.

Meltemi

Meltemi is a northern wind that mainly occurs in summer on the Greek Aegean islands. It is characterized by cool, dry air, providing relief from the heat. Meltemi usually has a moderate to strong speed, and its intensity can increase as it approaches the islands, potentially leading to gusty conditions. This wind is particularly appreciated by sailors as it creates favorable sailing conditions.

In Greece, meltemi is known for its impact on climate and weather conditions, and its presence can last from several days to a few weeks during the peak summer season.

In Poland, meltemi does not occur. Poland has other types of winds, such as föhn and foehn, but lacks the winds characteristic of the Aegean Sea region, like meltemi.

Cretan Wind

The Cretan wind is a local, warm wind that blows from the northern and northeastern direction, particularly in the region of Crete. It is associated with meteorological phenomena occurring in the Mediterranean, bringing warm and often dry air. The Cretan wind can have moderate to strong speeds, and its effect can lead to a rapid increase in temperature on the island, particularly felt during summer.

In Greece, this wind is well known and influences the local climate, especially during the summer, bringing warm days and reducing air humidity. It can also affect sailing conditions around the island.

In Poland, the Cretan wind does not occur, as it is a phenomenon typical of the Mediterranean region. In Poland, other types of winds can be found, such as föhn and foehn, which have different sources and properties.

Rescue Operations

Evacuations and rescue operations in Poland, particularly in the context of storms, are a crucial element of crisis management. In situations of threat, such as intense storms, floods, or strong winds, local authorities make decisions to evacuate residents from areas most at risk of destruction. An example of this is the storms in 2019 that necessitated the evacuation of residents around Wrocław, where flooding was imminent.

Rescue services, such as the fire department and police, mobilize to conduct rescue operations and provide assistance to those affected. Collaboration with local organizations, volunteers, and institutions like crisis centers is essential for the effective execution of evacuations and provision of aid. Quick response and communication with residents are key to minimizing the risk of loss of life and health and reducing material damage.

Rescue operations are coordinated processes aimed at providing rapid and effective assistance to individuals in danger to their health, life, or property. They can involve situations related to natural disasters, traffic accidents, fires, building collapses, terrorist attacks, or other threats. Various services participate in the rescue process, including the fire department, emergency medical services, police, and other specialized rescue groups. Below are the stages and elements of rescue operations.

  1. Situation Assessment

Every rescue operation begins with a thorough assessment of the situation. This assessment is crucial as it allows for the identification of existing threats, their extent, and the resources needed to address them. Upon arrival at the scene, rescue services evaluate how many people are injured, whether there are additional dangers (e.g., chemical spills, risk of structural collapse), and what actions need to be taken first.

  1. Securing the Scene

Securing the area is one of the most important rescue actions, aimed at protecting both rescuers and bystanders from additional hazards. This includes closing off the area around the incident, removing unnecessary witnesses, and securing against secondary threats such as explosions, fires, or structural collapses. Protective barriers and specialized equipment, such as chemical detectors and thermal cameras, are often used.

  1. Evacuating at-Risk Individuals

In the case of major disasters, one of the most critical elements of rescue operations is the evacuation of individuals in immediate danger. Rescue services must conduct the evacuation quickly and efficiently while ensuring the safety of both evacuees and rescuers. An important aspect is establishing safe evacuation routes and locations where affected individuals can receive further assistance. In large rescue operations, the evacuation is coordinated at the local or national level, involving the appropriate services and authorities.

  1. First Aid

First aid involves immediate actions aimed at sustaining the life of the injured and stabilizing their condition until they can be handed over to specialized medical services. First aid includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), controlling bleeding, stabilizing fractures, and protecting against hypothermia. In the course of rescue operations, first aid is provided at the scene by medical rescuers, firefighters, or trained individuals. Quick action is crucial, as time plays a decisive role in saving lives.

  1. Medical Transport

After first aid is administered, the injured individuals are transported to the nearest medical facilities based on their health condition. Medical transport may involve ambulances, rescue helicopters, or even ships or airplanes, depending on the circumstances and scale of the incident. During transport, monitoring and medical care for the patient are maintained to minimize the risk of deterioration in their condition.

  1. Rescue Operation

A rescue operation refers to coordinated actions aimed at extracting individuals trapped in debris, vehicles, or other life-threatening situations. An example could be a rescue operation following an earthquake, where rescuers use specialized equipment such as inspection cameras, motion and sound detectors, and equipment for lifting heavy objects. In rescue operations, collaboration among different services and proper training of rescuers are particularly important. Sometimes these actions can last many hours or even days, especially when there is a risk of structural collapse.

  1. Coordination of Rescue Services

A key element in rescue operations is the proper coordination among various services. Many units, including the fire department, police, medical rescuers, and sometimes military units, often participate in rescue operations. Coordination allows for optimal use of available resources and ensures that all actions proceed smoothly and without disruption. Services must collaborate in terms of communication, information sharing, and logistics, which is crucial in large-scale disasters.

  1. Psychological Support

Another important aspect of rescue operations is psychological support for disaster victims. Individuals who have experienced traumatic events often require immediate psychological assistance to cope with shock and stress. Psychologists working at the disaster scene help victims and their families manage their emotions and support them in the process of returning to normal life.

  1. Analysis and Lessons Learned

After the rescue operation is concluded, a thorough analysis of the actions taken is conducted to draw lessons for the future. This analysis aims to improve procedures and better prepare services for future crisis situations. Each rescue operation can provide valuable lessons that can enhance effectiveness in future actions.

Rescue operations are complex processes that require the collaboration of many different services and organizations. They also demand professionalism, quick response, and precision in action. The effectiveness of these operations is critical to the lives and health of many people, making it essential to continually improve procedures and train rescuers.

Summary

Extreme storms and winds are becoming an increasing threat in both Greece and Poland, directly linked to global climate change. Although located in different climatic zones, both countries are experiencing more frequent destructive phenomena.

Greece

Greece, situated in the Mediterranean basin, is particularly vulnerable to severe storms, especially during the autumn and winter months. Of particular danger are medicane-type storms, which resemble tropical cyclones. An example is Storm Ianos, which struck Greece in September 2020, causing floods, destruction of homes, and significant material losses, particularly on the islands. Greece also faces strong winds that often accompany storms, as well as wildfires, further worsening the ecological and economic situation in the country. Extreme weather events pose threats not only to the population but also to tourism, a key sector of the economy.

Poland

In Poland, despite its location in a temperate climate zone, there is also an observed increase in the frequency of extreme storms and strong winds. Severe thunderstorms, especially in the summer, are becoming more intense, bringing torrential rains, hail, and destructive winds. In recent years, particularly dangerous phenomena have included derechos—long-lasting storm lines with very strong wind gusts that have torn off roofs and uprooted trees, causing significant material losses, especially in the northern and western regions of the country.

In both Greece and Poland, these phenomena present growing challenges for infrastructure, emergency services, and the economy. To meet these challenges, investments in flood protection, infrastructure reinforcement, and more effective warning systems for severe weather events are essential.

 

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