A significant earthquake, initially measured at 5.2 on the Richter scale, occurred shortly before 12:30 a.m., causing widespread alarm in Evia and Attica. The Geodynamics Institute pinpointed the epicenter to the sea area between Schinias and Stira, Evia, specifically 5 kilometers west-northwest of Stira at a depth of 13.6 kilometers.
The main tremor was followed by a series of smaller aftershocks, including two measuring 2.5 and 2.6 on the Richter scale within 15 minutes, and four more ranging from 1.6 to 2.0. The seismic activity in the area had begun two hours earlier with a smaller 2.6-magnitude quake.
Aftershocks are expected
Seismologists, including Professor Efthimis Lekkas, are assessing the situation. While the area is not typically prone to large earthquakes, Lekkas stated that aftershocks exceeding 4.0 magnitude could be expected. Scientists from the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP) held an emergency video conference to evaluate the data. Of particular concern is the proximity to Oropos, an area known for producing slightly stronger tremors.
In a precautionary move, Civil Protection sources confirmed the deployment of vehicles to Eastern Attica and Southern Evia. The First and Seventh EMAK units have been placed on standby, and ESKEDIK is coordinating with police and local authorities.
Evia’s Deputy Governor, Giorgos Kelaiditis, reported no immediate damage from Nea Stira after speaking with the local president, though the tremor was strongly felt in Chalkida. The fear of a larger earthquake prompted many residents of Nea Stira to spend the night outdoors, with one resident telling ERT that this was the strongest earthquake they had ever experienced in the area.
Related: 4.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Evia, Greece
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