It was only a week ago that we reported Crete and parts of Greece had been struck by a 5.9 magnitude earthquake. At 6.19 am local time today, the popular summer holiday destination was hit again, this time by a 6.1 magnitude tremor.
The country’s position on the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates means it is prone to seismic activity, but the quick succession of these quakes is understandably concerning if you have a trip booked soon. So, read on for all the latest information on whether it is safe to travel to Crete right now.
Where was the earthquake?
According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the quake was in the Aegean Sea, 58 kilometres northeast of Elounda (a town in Crete). It had a significant depth of 69 kilometres.
Residents in Crete reported to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre’s website that they were awoken by shaking in their homes. The tremor was also reportedly felt by residents in Athens, and even as far as Israel, Türkiye, Egypt and Libya.
Is it safe to travel to Crete?
Thankfully, it seems the situation in Crete is not severe. A national directive issued by Greek authorities has urged people to reach ‘higher places’ and move ‘away from the coast’ as a precaution, and the island’s fire brigade said all its forces were on high alert.
However, no calls for assistance have been received so far, and there have been no reports of casualties or significant property damage.
Some of the provincial road network has experienced landslides, and some buildings in Heraklion have been damaged. Also, the Imbros Gorge, which is a popular hiking route in Sfakia, has been closed as a precaution. There’s also a focus on ensuring school buildings are safe for students to attend.
Has a tsunami warning been issued?
Yes, the EMSC issued a tsunami warning and referred people in Greece, as well as Türkiye, Italy, France and Portugal, to closely monitor local news and follow the advice of authorities.
However, President of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, Efthimios Lekkas, said that thankfully, the earthquake’s depth means that chances of a tsunami are low, according to the Independent.
What is the advice from the UK Foreign Office?
The Foreign Office has not published any advice recommending against travel to Greece, but its webpage does have a safety and security section which reads: ‘The area around the Cycladic islands of Santorini (Thira), Anafi, Ios and Amorgos, experienced increased earthquake activity in early 2025. This increase has since subsided and the tourist season is expected to continue as usual.
There is a risk of earthquakes and earth tremors in Greece. You should:
- familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake
- follow advice given by the local authorities
- call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
For further guidance on how to prepare for earthquakes, please visit the Greek Ministry of Civil Protection (in English) and to see, for anywhere in Greece, where your nearest assembly points are located in case of emergency you can visit mysafetyplan.gov.gr (map with text in Greek).’
When was the last earthquake in the region?
Just last week, a 5.9 magnitude earthquake was recorded off the coasts of the Greek islands Crete, Kasos and Karpathos. No casualties or severe damage was reported. However, much like this one, the quake was felt as far away as Egypt. You can read our coverage on the event here.
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