A large operation to free residents from flooded areas of Greece continues with the Armed Forces, helicopters and army machines intervening.
In this large-scale rescue effort, Australian helicopters from the McDermott Aviation Group company are playing a pivotal role. They had been contracted to Greece to help with the raging fires earlier this month and now have adapted to changing conditions to rescue citizens from extreme floods.
McDermott Aviation, which is contributing decisively to the gigantic operation, said “From fires to floods, our Australian Sunshine Coast based team contracted in Greece have stayed extremely busy helping out where needed. The Bell214 helicopters can switch from bombing fires to carrying passengers, making them the ultimate workhorse. Good luck to all our teams.”
Helicopters are constantly landing at the Asteras Karditsa stadium, with people who have been rescued from the wider area of Palamas and Farkadona Trikala.
Citizens had been left in a state of shock, as they remained helpless for endless hours on the roofs of houses and higher buildings, without water or food and growing fears that they will not make it.
The Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, said “My thoughts are with those affected by the extreme weather that affected Greece.
“I am pleased to see the helicopters of the Australian company, McDermott Aviation, helping and contributing to the relief of those affected while participating in the rescue missions in Volos,” Ms Duncan added.