Attachments
Arrivals and Departures
The arrival rate to the Greek islands in the first two days of the week (770) decreased by 50% compared to the previous week.
The monthly arrivals average has decreased by 20% from the previous month. This may be attributable to the increased number of sea patrols and/or unsettled weather conditions. Nevertheless, the number of people arriving by sea to Greece on 9 March was notably high (3,340) due to favourable conditions, and indicative of people’s determination. This adds to the 36,000 refugees and migrants present in Greece as estimated by the newly-established Greek Refugees Crisis Management Coordination body.
Condition of People
According to the Port Authority, around 3,070 refugees and migrants are currently temporarily hosted in the Piraeus port terminals, whilst many people have also set up tents outside the area due to a lack of space.
The Hellenic Coast Guard rescued some 110 people, including more than 40 children and newborn babies, off the island of Samothrace. Authorities confirmed there were no people missing.
As essential goods such as food purchased by refugees in Athens and Thessaloniki is being sold at exorbitant prices, the General Secretariat for Commerce and Consumer Protection implemented several controls. Officers took action on nine violations of relevant legislation. Meanwhile, on Lesvos, police observed and halted the selling of tickets from Piraeus port to Eidomeni, after dozens of refugees and migrants were sold invalid tickets. The service is provided free of charge by Greek authorities.
Weather Headlines
An unsettled spell of weather is expected to continue across much of the region through the next week. Waterlogged and muddy ground conditions in northern Greece are expected to persist or further deteriorate as more rain is forecast over the next few days.
Spells of strong winds in the Aegean are likely to moderate the number of arrivals to Greek Islands, particularly early next week.