Strong earthquake strikes off the coast of Crete

Friday 24 April 2026 - 09:01

A moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8 struck off the coast of Greece early Friday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey.

The tremor was recorded at 6:18 a.m. local time (03:18 GMT) at a depth of approximately 12 kilometers. Its epicenter was located around 11.5 kilometers southeast of the coastal town of Ierapetra, on the island of Crete.

No immediate reports of casualties or significant damage were confirmed in the aftermath of the quake. However, local authorities continue to monitor the situation as a precaution, given the region’s known seismic sensitivity.

Greece is one of Europe’s most earthquake-prone countries due to its position along several active fault lines. Scientific studies have identified thousands of seismic faults across the country, making earthquakes a recurring natural hazard.

Earlier this year, a separate earthquake of magnitude 5.3 was recorded in the northwestern part of the country, causing limited impact. In recent years, Crete and other popular tourist areas have experienced multiple tremors, occasionally leading to structural damage, particularly to historic sites.

Experts emphasize that while earthquakes of this magnitude are not uncommon in the region, preparedness and monitoring remain essential to minimize risks for residents and visitors alike.