Tropical-like storm batters Greek islands, cause outages

Hurricane-force winds and heavy rain have caused power outages and road closures on several Greek islands, and authorities in nearby mainland areas are on alert

(Independent)

Hurricane-force winds and heavy rain battered several islands off the western coast of Greece, causing power outages and road closures Friday as authorities in nearby mainland areas remained on alert.

A powerful tropical-like storm named Ianos was expected to reach the Greek mainland and parts of the southern Peloponnese region later Friday, but computer models suggested that the storm would not directly affect the capital of Athens. The Civil Protection Authority said the western islands of Zakynthos, Kefalonia, and Ithaki had reported damage and outages and road closures from downed trees hitting power lines.

Schools remained closed in many areas in western Greece and authorities advised residents to remain indoors.