Stormy Weather in Chios: Gale-Force Winds Drag Ship in the Harbor, Mooring Lines Break

Severe problems were reported during the night of March 31, 2025, as this island was hit hard by extreme weather conditions. A vivid example of the situation on the island due to the storm was the ordeal faced by passengers and the struggle of the captain of the ship ‘N. RHODES’ to dock at the port of Chios. Around 10:00 PM, a powerful squall with heavy rain and gale-force winds prevented the ship from docking safely. During the attempted mooring, waves and wind pushed the ship towards the side of the harbor office. The already difficult situation worsened when the mooring lines snapped on one side, and a large iron bollard broke off. The captain gave orders for the ship to move away from the jetty after sustaining damage from colliding with the rear of the vessel. Eventually, after three attempts and at least 30 minutes of effort, the ship successfully docked. Passengers and vehicles disembarked, and the ship continued its journey to Piraeus. A warning message was issued advising caution for travel and urging people to follow official guidelines amid strong weather phenomena affecting the islands until the morning of April 1, 2025.