Heraklion port authority warns of gale-force winds up to 8 Beaufort around Crete

Strong winds of 7 to 8 Beaufort are affecting the sea areas around Crete on Friday, November 6, with the Central Port Authority of Heraklion issuing a notice warning of dangerous weather conditions.

According to the gale warning bulletin, the strong winds are affecting the western and eastern Cretan Sea, the southwestern and southeastern Cretan Sea, and the southeastern Aegean.

The Central Port Authority of Heraklion is calling on all owners of ships and small boats moored in the area to take all necessary measures to secure their vessels safely.

At the same time, the authority recommends that commercial fishing boats, leisure craft and small boats avoid activity at sea for as long as the severe weather conditions persist.

Tugboats, lifeboats, fishing vessels and volunteer groups have been asked to remain on standby to assist if needed.

The Heraklion Port Authority said it has already placed all of its personnel, along with available vessels and land-based equipment, on alert in order to respond to emergencies and provide assistance to ships, small boats or individuals who may be at risk.

The warning follows a similar Heraklion port authority wind warning issued in recent weeks, as autumn storms have repeatedly brought strong winds and rough seas to Crete’s coastline. Earlier bad weather had also led to ferries being suspended from Souda port due to unsafe sailing conditions.