A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck Monday north-northwest of Nea Styra, a coastal town on the Greek island of Evia, the U.S. Geological Survey said.
Nea Styra is a small coastal town on the southern tip of Evia, Greece’s second-largest island, known for its beaches, fishing harbor, and ferry link to the mainland town of Agia Marina in Attica.
The wider southern Evia region combines rugged mountains with dense pine forests, olive groves, and traditional villages, making it both a tourist draw and an area of natural vulnerability.
How Far Is Nea Styra from Athens?
The quake hit at a depth of about 7 miles and was centered roughly 40 miles southeast of Athens, where tremors were felt but no immediate damage or injuries were reported.
In recent years it has faced severe challenges, most notably the 2022 wildfires that scorched vast swaths of forest, forcing mass evacuations and devastating the local economy. Today, the region is rebuilding while retaining its reputation as a scenic getaway close to Athens, marked by archaeological sites, seaside tavernas, and a landscape shaped by both its beauty and its exposure to natural disasters.
Are earthquakes common in Greece?
Yes. Greece is one of the most seismically active countries in Europe, sitting atop the complex boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. While most earthquakes are moderate in strength and cause little damage, tremors are frequent, and the country experiences thousands of small quakes each year. The risk is particularly high in regions such as Crete, the Ionian Islands, and the Aegean Sea, though even Athens has felt significant shocks in recent decades.
Associated Press
What was the worst earthquake in Greece’s history?
The deadliest earthquake in modern Greek history struck the Ionian Islands in August 1953, when a series of powerful quakes, including one measuring magnitude 7.2, devastated Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Ithaca. Entire towns were flattened, leaving more than 450 people dead, thousands injured, and nearly every building on the islands destroyed or badly damaged. The disaster reshaped the region, prompting mass emigration and leading to stricter building codes nationwide.
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