Local sources from Greece: Cretalive, LiFO.
UK coverage: Euronews.com.
In the early hours of Wednesday, May 14, 2025, a significant seismic event of magnitude 6.1 Richter occurred between Crete, Kasos, and Karpathos in Greece, causing widespread alarm but thankfully no reported injuries or damages. The tremor, striking at a depth of 60 kilometers, was felt across the southern Aegean islands, eastern Crete, parts of Attica, and even reached the coasts of Turkey. Described by residents as occurring in three increasing ‘waves’, the earthquake’s sensation lasted for a disconcerting 15 seconds. Professor Efthymios Lekkas, Chairman of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (EPPO), offered reassurance by highlighting the significant depth of the earthquake and its location on the Greek arc, a region known for the convergence of the European and African tectonic plates. He further clarified that this event was not connected to recent seismic activities in Santorini and Turkey, easing concerns over a potential pattern of earthquakes in the area. The international media quickly picked up on the story, with reports focusing on the impact of the earthquake on tourism, a vital sector for Greece. Following the quake, Greek authorities issued a precautionary tsunami warning and advised both residents and tourists to avoid coastal areas temporarily. This move, along with the temporary closure of popular tourist sites like the Samaria Gorge for safety checks, sparked discussions among travelers and international news outlets. Euronews and the Independent, among others, reported on tourist concerns but emphasized that Crete remains a safe and open destination for visitors. The international reportage underlined that the earthquake was an isolated event, unconnected to earlier seismic activities in the region. Moreover, no travel advisories have been issued for the Greek islands, reinforcing Greece’s status as a safe travel destination. However, tourists were advised to review their travel insurance policies regarding coverage for natural disasters, as compensation for trip cancellations due to such events is often contingent on specific policy terms. This seismic event and its aftermath have once again highlighted the resilience of the Greek people and their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of both residents and visitors amidst natural challenges.
TheLittleTwentieth - Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused 