An American tourist who had gone missing on the Greek island of Mathraki was tragically found dead on Sunday, marking the third such incident in a week, as reported by Greek broadcaster Skai news. The 55-year-old man had disappeared from his hotel last Tuesday and was later discovered lifeless, according to Corfu TV news. This unfortunate event follows the recent deaths of a 74-year-old man from The Netherlands on the island of Samos, and British TV doctor Michael Mosley on Symi island, who had fallen down a steep slope.
In addition to these heartbreaking discoveries, the search continues for several missing tourists in Greece. Albert Calibet, a 59-year-old American tourist from Los Angeles county, is still unaccounted for on the island of Amorgos after going missing during a hike. Family and friends have traveled to Greece to aid in the search efforts. Meanwhile, two French tourists, aged 73 and 64, are also missing on the Greek island of Sikinos, with a rescue mission underway involving volunteers, firefighters, and a police team from a nearby island.
Authorities have raised concerns about the impact of the intense heatwave in the region, with the deputy mayor of tourism of Amorgos, Popi Despotidi, suggesting that Calibet’s disappearance may have been influenced by the scorching temperatures. Greece has been experiencing record-breaking heat, with temperatures soaring up to 44.5 degrees Celsius in certain areas. The early onset of such extreme heat has led to health warnings and safety measures being implemented, including the closure of popular tourist sites like the Acropolis in Athens.
Notably, Cyprus has also been grappling with a severe heatwave, resulting in the tragic death of an 84-year-old woman due to heatstroke. The island has experienced temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius throughout the week, leading to multiple cases of heat-related illnesses among the elderly population. State authorities are urging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions and stay hydrated during this period of extreme heat.
As the search for missing tourists continues amidst challenging weather conditions, authorities are emphasizing the importance of staying safe and vigilant while exploring the picturesque landscapes of Greece and neighboring regions. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel and the need to prioritize safety above all else.