Samaria Gorge stays closed Tuesday and Wednesday as heavy rain forecast

Samaria Gorge will remain closed at both entrances on Tuesday, September 15, and Wednesday, September 16, 2026, after forecasters predicted heavy rainfall in the area, according to the Organization of Natural Environment and Climate Change (OFYPEKA).

OFYPEKA said it made the decision after reviewing an updated morning forecast bulletin from the National Meteorological Service (EMY). The agency had already closed the gorge on Tuesday over weather concerns, and it has now extended the closure through Wednesday as well.

For Tuesday, EMY forecast rainfall of up to 25 millimeters in the Xyloskalo area and up to 20 millimeters in Agia Roumeli. Because these figures exceed the operating limits set by the Region of Chania’s deputy regional authority, OFYPEKA said the gorge would stay shut at both its entrances for the day.

The organization added that Wednesday’s updated EMY bulletin points to heavy rain and possible storms, with rainfall reaching up to 29 millimeters in Xyloskalo and up to 22 millimeters in Agia Roumeli. As these amounts also surpass the approved threshold, OFYPEKA said the gorge would remain closed to visitors on Wednesday as well, again from both entrances.

The closures follow a broader pattern of unsettled autumn weather across the region this week, with cloud cover and local rain forecast across Crete on Tuesday. OFYPEKA had previously urged caution around the gorge as unstable conditions approached.

Visitors planning to hike Samaria or other gorges in Crete are advised to check official announcements before travelling, as access can change quickly depending on updated weather bulletins.