Hailstorm Devastates Grape Crops Across Heraklion, Crete

Sunday, 24 May 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

A severe hailstorm struck the Heraklion region of Crete, causing significant damage to local vineyards. The intense hail affected grape crops across the area, raising concerns for local wine producers heading into the growing season. While the storm poses no direct safety risk to visitors at this time, tourists exploring the wine-producing villages around Heraklion may notice crop damage in the fields. Those planning vineyard tours or wine tastings in the area should contact local estates in advance to confirm operations are running normally, as some producers may be assessing losses. Crete's wine industry, particularly in the Heraklion plateau, is an important part of the island's agricultural heritage and tourism offering. Hailstorms of this intensity are uncommon but can occur in late spring.