Greek flooding death toll rises to 16

By Magda Panoutsopoulou

ATHENS

Greek authorities on Thursday confirmed the death toll from deadly Athenian floods had risen to 16.

Six people are still reported missing but this information remains unconfirmed.

Of the 16 dead, 10 are men and five women. There is no confirmation on the identity of the sixteenth person found early on Thursday.

According to initial estimates from the Greek authorities, about 300 cars have been destroyed by the waters which turned roads in the Nea Peramos and Megara areas into fast-flowing rivers, trapping passengers in their vehicles and residents in their homes.

Several people were seen clambering onto the roofs of their properties to avoid the flood waters.

An investigation by the head of the First-Instance Court Prosecutor's Office Ilias Zagoreos has been ordered which will focus on whether there has been a breach of the law, especially in urban planning.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in a statement on Wednesday night: “I am saddened to learn about the many people who have lost their lives and loved ones during the deadly floods affecting central Greece.”

European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides said he was in “continuous contact” with Greek ministers.

Turkey has said that is ready to help Greece following the deadly floods in Athens, according to a foreign ministry statement released early on Thursday.

“Turkey, in solidarity with Greece, is ready to provide any kind of assistance,” the statement read.