A 6.1-magnitude earthquake has struck off the coast of Crete, triggering a tsunami warning across five countries and placing emergency services on high alert.
The epicentre was located 36 miles off Elounda, northeast Crete, at a depth of 43 miles, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). While the quake was deep — which typically limits surface damage — it was strong enough to rattle buildings across the Greek islands, and tremors were felt as far as Turkey and Egypt.
Tsunami Warning Issued Across Region
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) has issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas in Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, and Portugal.
The Greek government has ordered both locals and tourists to move away from the coast and seek higher ground as a precaution.
Emergency Response and Impact
As of 6:30am, there are no confirmed injuries or serious structural damage, according to Giorgos Tsapakos, a regional official on Crete.
However, the Greek fire brigade has placed all crews on the island on high alert, and patrols are actively monitoring coastal areas.
Efthymios Lekkas, director of the Earthquake and Planning Protection Organisation, stated that deeper earthquakes tend to cause less ground-level destruction, but emphasized that tsunami risks must still be taken seriously.
Context: Ongoing Seismic Activity in Region
This seismic event follows a 5.9-magnitude quake recorded off the Greek coast last week, which also triggered temporary tsunami fears and led to safety concerns for Crete and Rhodes.
Greece sits on a complex fault zone and experiences frequent seismic activity, though most quakes are not destructive.
Safety Advisory for Residents and Tourists
- Avoid coastal areas until authorities give the all-clear.
- Monitor updates from national and local emergency services.
- Tourists in Crete and surrounding islands should follow hotel or resort evacuation protocols and stay informed through official tourism alerts.
The Hellenic National Meteorological Service and EMSC continue to monitor seismic activity and will provide updates as the situation evolves.
