Two earthquakes strike off Crete, largest at 5.3 magnitude

Two earthquakes, the strongest measuring 5.3 magnitude, rattled the sea off the southern Greek island of Crete on Saturday afternoon. The tremors occurred near Gavdos Island, according to the Geodynamic Institute of Greece.

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The Geodynamic Institute announced the magnitude of the earthquake as 4.6.

The first quake, with a magnitude of 4.6, struck shortly after 12:30 p.m. local time. Its epicenter was about 7 kilometers northeast of Gavdos, with a focal depth of 14.1 kilometers.

Approximately six to seven minutes later, a second, more powerful earthquake of magnitude 5.3 occurred. This tremor's epicenter was located in a marine area about 6 kilometers east of Gavdos, and its focal depth was measured at 10 kilometers.

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The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be approximately 7 kilometers northeast of Gavdos Island, while the focal depth was calculated at 14.1 kilometers.

Both earthquakes occurred in a region known for its active fault lines in the Eastern Mediterranean. Initial reports indicate no official statements regarding casualties or property damage. Authorities have urged caution due to the possibility of aftershocks and are closely monitoring seismic activity.

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The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be approximately 6 kilometers east of Gavdos Island, with a focal depth of 10 kilometers.