2025-05-22T05:17:00Z

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A powerful earthquake struck several Greek islands today, registering a magnitude of 6.1. The quake's epicenter was located approximately 36 miles off the coast of Elounda, a town on the island of Crete. This seismic event has raised concerns about a potential tsunami, prompting authorities to react swiftly.

According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 43 miles. Efthymios Lekkas, director of the Earthquake and Planning Protection Organisation, noted that while deeper earthquakes often result in less surface damage, the tremors were still significant enough to warrant caution and preparedness among residents and tourists alike.

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre responded to the situation by issuing a tsunami warning that extends across several countries, including Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, and Portugal. In light of the circumstances, the Greek government took immediate action, urging locals and visitors to evacuate coastal areas and seek higher ground to ensure safety.

Regional government official Giorgos Tsapakos reported that there have been no immediate reports of injuries or major damage following the earthquake, which struck shortly before 9 a.m. local time (6 a.m. GMT). However, the Greek fire brigade has placed all of its forces on high alert as a precautionary measure. Some minor incidents of damage were noted, including items falling from shelves in local supermarkets.

The tremors were felt not only across Greece but also in neighboring countries such as Turkey and Egypt. Following the initial quake, the Greek Institute of Geodynamics recorded 19 aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 3.5. In total, the institute documented 104 instances of seismic activity within a 24-hour period. A cluster of these smaller quakes occurred near the location of the 6.1 magnitude quake, while others were detected in the sea surrounding the islands of Fira and Amorgos, as well as around the Greek mainland.

This seismic activity is not particularly unusual for Greece, which lies on the tectonic boundary between the African and Eurasian plates, making it one of the most seismically active regions in Europe. Just last week, a 5.9 magnitude earthquake was recorded off the coast of Greece, which also led to a temporary tsunami warning and raised safety concerns for the islands of Crete and Rhodes.

In light of the recent seismic events, the UK Foreign Office has issued guidance for British travelers planning to visit the Greek islands. Their advice emphasizes the importance of being aware of earthquake risks, noting that the area surrounding several Cycladic islands, including Santorini (Thira), Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos, experienced increased seismic activity in early 2025. While this activity has since diminished, the office reassured travelers that the tourist season is expected to continue as normal.

Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake, heed instructions from local authorities, and contact Greek emergency services by dialing 112 if they find themselves in immediate danger. For ongoing updates and information regarding this situation, the public is encouraged to stay informed through reputable news sources.

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