Samaria Gorge stays closed Monday as rain forecast exceeds safety limits

The Organization of Natural Environment and Climate Change (OFYPEKA) has kept Samaria Gorge closed to visitors on Monday, September 28, 2026, from both of its entrances, citing an updated weather forecast from the National Meteorological Service (EMY).

According to OFYPEKA, the EMY bulletin predicts increased cloud cover with local rain, showers and thunderstorms for the day, with rainfall reaching up to 11mm in the Xyloskalo area and up to 13mm in the Agia Roumeli area.

Since these figures exceed the thresholds approved by the Region of Chania for the gorge’s operation, OFYPEKA said the closure applies for the full day, with no access permitted from either the Xyloskalo or Agia Roumeli side.

The measure follows a similar closure the previous day, when the Samaria Gorge stayed closed on Sunday, September 27 for the same reason. The repeated shutdowns come as unsettled weather continues to affect the island, after EMY issued an orange warning for Crete over storms and heavy rain in recent days.

OFYPEKA has not announced a date for reopening and said future decisions will continue to depend on updated forecasts and rainfall thresholds set by local authorities. Visitors planning to hike any of Crete’s gorges are advised to check official announcements before travelling to the area.