Quick Read
- A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck near Crete, Greece, early Wednesday.
- The quake’s epicenter was 20 km south of Kasos, with a depth of 64.4 km.
- Authorities issued a tsunami warning, urging people to avoid coastlines.
- No significant damage or injuries have been reported so far.
- Seismologists confirm no connection to prior Santorini earthquake swarms.
6.0-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Crete and Surrounding Islands
Early Wednesday morning, a powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck the waters south of the Greek island of Crete, prompting tsunami warnings and widespread concern. According to the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, the quake occurred at 1:50 a.m. local time (10:50 p.m. GMT) with its epicenter located 20 kilometers south of the island of Kasos and a focal depth of 64.4 kilometers. The tremor was felt across Crete, Rhodes, and Kos, leading authorities to issue precautionary measures.
Tsunami Warning Issued Following the Quake
In response to the earthquake, Greece’s Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection issued an emergency alert via the 112 system, advising residents and tourists in southern Greece to move away from coastal areas due to the risk of a possible tsunami. The message read: “A magnitude 5.9 earthquake occurred 48 km SE of Kasos. Risk of possible tsunami in your area. Move away from the coast immediately. Follow the instructions of local authorities.” The magnitude was later revised to 6.0.
Seismologist Efthymios Lekkas, president of Greece’s Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP), noted that the earthquake’s significant depth likely reduced its impact on the surface. “This is a positive sign,” Lekkas told ERT, adding that deep earthquakes are less likely to cause extensive damage or aftershocks. He also clarified that this event is unrelated to the earthquake swarms that affected Santorini in recent months.
Impact on Local Communities and Tourism
Despite the strength of the earthquake, no significant damage or injuries have been reported so far. The island of Crete, a major tourist destination that attracts over five million visitors annually, experienced shaking, but local authorities have assured that the situation is under control. Residents and tourists shared their experiences of the quake, with many describing the sudden and intense shaking that disrupted their sleep.
Tom O’Neill, a tourist from London staying in Crete, recounted: “I woke up feeling dizzy, and then I realized my bed was shaking. It lasted for about a minute, and things started falling off shelves.” Another tourist, Anastasia from Rhodes, said, “People here have been really shaken up. A lot haven’t slept since the tremors.”
Historical Context of Earthquakes in Greece
Greece is located along the Hellenic Arc, one of the most seismically active regions in the world. The country experiences frequent earthquakes due to the complex tectonic interactions between the African and Eurasian plates. While most quakes are minor and cause little damage, larger events like Wednesday’s tremor occasionally raise concerns about potential tsunamis and structural impacts.
In recent years, the Greek islands have experienced several notable seismic events. Earlier this year, a swarm of earthquakes near Santorini led to the evacuation of thousands of residents and tourists. However, seismologists have emphasized that the current earthquake near Crete is unrelated to those previous swarms.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
The Greek government has taken proactive steps to ensure public safety in the aftermath of the earthquake. Emergency alerts were sent out promptly, and local authorities have been monitoring the situation closely. Residents and visitors are advised to follow the guidance of local officials and avoid coastal areas until the tsunami warning is lifted.
Seismologists continue to monitor the region for potential aftershocks or additional seismic activity. Efthymios Lekkas reassured the public, stating, “These earthquakes typically occur alone and are not followed by significant aftershocks. The geodynamic framework is completely different from other recent seismic events in the region.”
While the immediate threat appears to have subsided, experts stress the importance of earthquake preparedness in seismically active regions like Greece. This includes having emergency kits, knowing evacuation routes, and staying informed through official channels.
As of now, no major damage or injuries have been reported, and the tsunami warning remains a precautionary measure. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
Source: Greekherald, Lbc