A series of earthquakes, including a powerful 5.3-magnitude tremor, shook the Cyclades islands in southeastern Greece overnight, causing widespread concern among residents of Santorini and Amorgos.
The seismic activity, which continued into the early hours of Tuesday, has left locals on edge as aftershocks ripple through the region.
According to data released by the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens, at least five quakes were recorded overnight, with the strongest measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale.
The tremors, ranging from 4.0 to 5.0 in magnitude, were centered in the sea south of Amorgos, between 16 and 18 kilometers from the island’s Arkesini area.
The most intense quake struck at 12:37 a.m., with its epicenter 17 kilometers southwest of Arkesini and a focal depth of 13.3 kilometers. It was felt as far away as Attica and Crete.
Just seven minutes later, a 4.1-magnitude tremor followed, with subsequent quakes of 4.0 magnitude recorded at 2:02 a.m. and 5:47 a.m.
The strongest quake in the region so far occurred earlier on Monday at 10:16 p.m., measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale.
The quake, the largest recorded in the area between Santorini and Amorgos to date, was felt across Attica, Crete, and several Cycladic islands. Its epicenter was located 14 kilometers southwest of Arkesini, with a focal depth of 17 kilometers.
While the 5.3-magnitude quake was classified as "strong," the others were deemed "weak" by the Geodynamic Institute.
However, the repeated tremors have heightened anxiety among residents, many of whom are still recovering from previous seismic events in the region.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, though no significant damage or injuries have been reported so far.
The Cyclades, a popular tourist destination, remain on alert as the earth continues to rumble beneath their feet.