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Crete across
On May 14, 2025, a significant earthquake struck near the Greek island of Crete, prompting a tsunami warning and widespread alerts across the southeastern Aegean Sea.
Earthquake Details
- Magnitude: Reported between 5.9 and 6.3
- Time: Approximately 1:51 a.m. Eastern European Time
- Epicenter: Near the island of Kasos, southeast of Crete
- Depth: Approximately 35 to 62.5 kilometers
The tremors were felt across Crete, Rhodes, Kos, and extended to regions as distant as Israel, Syria, and Egypt.
Tsunami Warning and Public Response
Following the earthquake, Greece’s Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection issued a tsunami warning, advising residents and tourists in affected areas, including Crete, Kasos, and Karpathos, to move away from coastal regions and seek higher ground.
Emergency alerts were disseminated via mobile phones, and authorities emphasized the importance of adhering to safety instructions.
Impact and Safety Measures
Despite the earthquake’s strength, no significant damage or casualties have been reported. The depth of the quake likely mitigated its destructive potential.
As a precaution, popular sites like the Samaria Gorge in Crete have been temporarily closed for safety inspections.
Travel Advisory
Flights to and from Crete, including major airports in Heraklion and Chania, continue to operate normally. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not issued any new travel advisories for Greece.
Travelers are advised to stay informed through official channels and follow any local guidance.
Seismic Context
Greece lies on the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of Europe’s most seismically active regions. Earlier this year, the Santorini-Amorgos zone experienced over 7,700 tremors, highlighting ongoing geological activity in the area.
