Another earthquake in front of Crete: holidaymakers on Santorin on alert!

Another earthquake in front of Crete: holidaymakers on Santorin on alert!

Kreta, Griechenland - On May 22, 2025, an earthquake of the strength 6.1 shook the regions in front of Crete and Santorin. The epicenter was about 82 kilometers northeast of Heraklion on Crete at a depth of 68 kilometers. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were initially reported. The earthquake was not the first recent time; A similar quake took place on May 14th, which unsettled travelers and residents in this seismic region.

The quake were noticeable in different parts of the Greek islands, including the island of Kasos, and were felt to Kos, Rhodes and Santorino. After the first earthquake on May 14, the Greek authorities spent a precautionary tsunami warning. Since the end of January 2025, numerous quakes have been recorded around Santorin, which makes the current seismic activity comparable to that of 1964. In the last seven days, over 1,700 quake were registered, many of them with magnifications between 2 and 3.

travel instructions and security measures

The Federal Foreign Office updated the travel instructions for Greece on May 15, 2025. There is currently no travel warning, but only a travel instruction. Holidaymakers are obliged to start booked trips, as care alone is not sufficient for free cancellations. Flat -rate travelers only have the possibility of free cancellation in the event of serious effects, such as uninhabitable accommodations.

The situation is precarious. Individual travelers face challenges in cancellation, especially if flights and accommodations are available. Rice cancellation insurance generally does not apply to natural events. Experts also warn of the possibility of a strong quake or even a volcanic eruption, which increases the concerns in the travel industry. There was already a decline in the bookings, and many are concerned about possible burglaries in the number of visitors in summer.

Current situation on Santorin

on Santorin herself has decreased the intensity of the earthquakes, but so far there has been no final all -clear. However, damage has so far been low. Experts indicate that strong quake (strength 6 or more) could result in considerable destruction and possibly a tsunami. The Kolombos underwater volcano, 15 kilometers northeast of Santorin, carries an additional risk because a larger magma chamber is located at a depth of 5-10 kilometers. The last eruption of the Colombos dates back to the 17th century.

travelers should find out about the current situation and activate emergency notifications. The Greek platform mysafetyplan.gov.gr indicates in real time, and the German geo research center advises not to choose accommodation in narrow streets or poorly secured skyscrapers.