Crete's gorges to remain closed Sunday after earthquakes

Several popular gorges on the Greek island of Crete will remain closed to visitors on Sunday, June 21, following a series of earthquakes. The Samaria Gorge, Imbros Gorge, and Kourtaliotis Gorge have been shut down as a precautionary measure after two seismic tremors, measuring 5.3 and 4.7 on the Richter scale, were recorded off the coast of Gavdos island on Saturday.

The Hellenic Public Properties Company (OFYPETKA) announced that the Samaria National Park will not operate following directives from the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP). Similarly, the Municipality of Sfakia has informed residents and visitors that the Imbros Gorge will also be closed on Sunday. These decisions prioritize visitor safety until thorough inspections confirm the gorges are secure for passage.

The Municipality of Agios Vasileios in Rethymno has also decided, in coordination with OFYPETKA, to keep the Kourtaliotis Gorge closed. The primary concern is the potential risk of landslides or other dangerous phenomena resulting from the seismic activity. Authorities are working to ensure the safety of all visitors before reopening these natural attractions.

The closures come amid ongoing efforts to assess the impact of the earthquakes on the region's infrastructure and natural sites. While the tremors were felt across Crete, the immediate focus is on ensuring public safety at popular tourist destinations like these gorges.