Strong earthquake betwen Kasos and Karpathos - One off event says chief seismologist

The seismic tremor occurred at 01:50 in the early hours of the morning between Kasos and Karpathos, according to the revised solution of the Geodynamic Institute and caused intense concern among the residents of the Dodecanese, Crete and other areas of the southern Aegean.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located 20 kilometers south of Kasos and had a focal depth of 64.4 km, according to the revised solution of the Athens Geodynamic Institute.

The earthquake was particularly felt in Crete, Kos and Rhodes, while a tsunami warning was issued as a precaution

The first assessment of the Geodynamic Institute gave the earthquake a magnitude of 6.0, which occurred 19 km southeast of Kasos, with a focal depth of 62.5 km.

The German Geosciences Research Center (GFZ) estimated for its part that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.3 and that its focal depth was about 83 km.

Efthymios Lekkas is reassuring
The president of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP), Efthymios Lekkas, appeared reassuring when speaking to ERT. As he stated, the large focal depth (60 km) resulted in the seismic energy reaching the surrounding areas weakened, which probably limited the damage.

He also emphasized that this is a unique phenomenon, without extensive pre- or post-seismic activity, which is “very positive”. As he explained, “at this depth, earthquakes usually occur once, without a sequel”.

Not linked to earthquakes in Santorini and Turkey
When asked about a possible correlation with recent earthquakes in Santorini and Turkey, Mr. Lekkas clarified that there is no geodynamic connection. “The geodynamic context is completely different. The earthquakes in Santorini are related to volcanic activity, while those in Turkey to the Anatolian fault,” he said.

No damage has been reported
The earthquake was felt throughout the Dodecanese and mainly in eastern Crete. According to the first information from the fire department, there were no calls, nor have any material damages been reported at this stage. However, as a precaution, vehicles are patrolling to assess the situation.

Message from 112 about a possible tsunami
A few minutes after the tremor, the authorities sent a warning message via the emergency number 112 to residents of the southern regions of the country, warning of a possible tsunami.

The message stated:

“Extremely urgent notification. Ministry of Climate Crisis & Civil Protection 14-05-2025 02:10. A magnitude 5.9 earthquake occurred 48 km SE of Kasos. There is a risk of a possible Tsunami in your area. Immediately move away from the coast. Follow the instructions of the Local Authorities.