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Crete hit by Saharan dust, rain; conditions improve Saturday

Friday, 17 April 2026/SourceGoogle News/1 min read
Crete is experiencing localized rain showers and thunderstorms this week, alongside reduced visibility caused by African dust blown north from the Sahara. The dust has been affecting air quality and coating surfaces across the island. Conditions are expected to improve from Saturday, when the dust influence weakens and weather gradually stabilizes. For tourists, outdoor activities such as hiking, beach days, and sightseeing may be disrupted by brief but heavy rain bursts, particularly in the afternoons. Drivers should exercise caution on wet roads, as sudden downpours can create slippery conditions. If you have respiratory sensitivities, limit prolonged outdoor exposure while dust levels remain elevated. The unsettled weather is temporary. From the weekend onward, clearer skies are forecast, making it a good time to plan excursions to archaeological sites, gorges, and coastal areas across the island.

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