A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale was recorded on Thursday at 6:19 a.m. in the sea area north of Crete, causing significant concern among residents, though no serious damage or injuries have been reported.
According to the Geodynamic Institute, the epicenter of the quake was located 56 kilometers north of Neapoli, Lasithi, with a focal depth estimated at 60.3 kilometers. The seismic tremor was felt across a large part of the country, from Crete and the Peloponnese to Attica, the Cyclades, and western Cyprus.
Widespread Sensation – No Major Damage
Despite its intensity and duration, the tremor did not cause serious destruction. According to the Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, no issues were detected at hospitals or health centers in the area. Local authorities remain on alert for potential inspections in school facilities to assess any damage before deciding on their operation.
Seismologists’ Assessments
Initial assessments from seismologists were calm and reassuring. The President of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP), Efthymios Lekkas, noted that the significant focal depth reduces the risk of aftershocks and phenomena such as tsunamis. “We do not expect major damage,” he stated.
On his part, Thanasis Ganas, Director of Research at the Geodynamic Institute, explained that it was an intermediate-depth earthquake, far from seismically active areas like Santorini, which explains its wide perceptibility. “When such quakes occur, they are felt over long distances,” he added, pointing out that any aftershocks would be few and mild.
Akis Tselentis, Director of the Geodynamic Institute, emphasized that “this was the main earthquake,” explaining that the tremor occurred above the subducting section of the lithospheric plate beneath Crete, which allowed the seismic waves to spread over a large radius. He predicted that aftershocks may follow, possibly reaching up to magnitude 5 on the Richter scale, but without serious consequences.
Second, Smaller Tremor
Shortly after the main quake, at 6:34 a.m., a second tremor with a magnitude of 3.1 was recorded, with its epicenter 53 kilometers north of Neapoli, Lasithi, and a focal depth of 59.4 kilometers.
Ongoing Monitoring – Authorities Urge Calm
Relevant services and seismologists are closely monitoring the phenomenon. So far, there has been no announcement of concern. However, residents of Crete and surrounding areas are advised to remain calm and follow the instructions of Civil Protection authorities.
