OFYPEKA closes Samaria Gorge Tuesday, September 22, over heavy rain forecast

The Organization of Natural Environment and Climate Change (OFYPEKA) closed Samaria Gorge to visitors on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, citing heavy rainfall and storms forecast for the area.

OFYPEKA said the decision was based on an updated forecast bulletin from the National Meteorological Service (EMY). According to that forecast, Tuesday would bring heavy rain or storms to the region, with rainfall estimated at up to 10.5 millimeters in the Xyloskalo area and up to 8 millimeters near Agia Roumeli.

The organization said the forecast values exceed the approved limits set by the Regional Unit of Chania for safe operation of the gorge. As a result, Samaria Gorge is to remain closed for the entire day on Tuesday, with entry barred from both the Xyloskalo and Agia Roumeli entrances.

The closure follows a similar shutdown earlier in September, when the gorge was closed at both entrances due to storm warnings — part of a pattern of weather-related closures affecting one of Crete’s most visited gorges this season. OFYPEKA has previously urged caution around Samaria as unstable weather has repeatedly disrupted access during the month.