Schools to close on Ionian islands and Larissa as weather set to worsen

Civil protection authorities on Thursday ordered all schools to remain closed on Friday the Ionian islands of Zakynthos, Cephalonia and Ithaca, as well as in the town of Larissa, after meteorologists warned of more torrential rains and storms to come.

The decision comes a day after a weather system called Eurydice caused flash floods in western Attica that claimed at least 15 lives and caused widespread destruction. Strong showers also caused rock falls and mud slides along the coast of western Greece, though no injuries have been reported in that area.

Meteorologists are concerned that Eurydice may not have done its worst yet, as it is forecast to remain in the country through the weekend and may coincide with a Mediterranean hurricane called Xenon that appears to be on its way to Greece.