A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Chalkidiki on Sunday evening, causing tremors felt across the peninsula and as far as Thessaloniki. Despite the initial concern, leading seismologists have been quick to reassure the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm.
Experts emphasized the low seismic activity historically recorded in the region.
Professor Kostas Papazachos, a geophysics expert at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, explained that Chalkidiki has no history of major earthquakes or significant damage, even in records dating back centuries.
"This was a small quake," Mr.Papazachos said, adding that while underwater fault data is limited, the area has consistently shown low seismic activity. He anticipates aftershocks, which are typical after earthquakes of this size, but believes they will be minor.
Athanasios Ganas, Research Director at the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens, confirmed there is no tsunami risk and reassured residents in Thessaloniki that they are not in danger.
He noted that it will take at least 24 hours to confirm whether the 5.2 magnitude tremor was the main shock.
Other seismologists echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the rarity of strong earthquakes in Chalkidiki. Professor Manolis Skordilis of Aristotle University explained that the fault responsible for the quake is not known to produce large earthquakes.
The earthquake, which occurred just after 7:00 p.m., was followed by a 4.2 magnitude aftershock.
Minor aftershocks are expected in the coming days, but experts remain confident that there is no significant risk to the region.