The latest earthquakes from magnitude 4.0 Richter on near or on Crete.

October 17, 2025, 06:55 a.m. local time: Moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.1 west of Falassarna

A moderate earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale shook Western Crete early Friday morning, October 17, 2025. According to the Geodynamic Institute of Greece, the tremor occurred at 06:55 a.m., with its epicenter located 45 kilometers west-southwest of Falassarna, in a marine area off the island’s western coast (Source: Creta Times).

Residents in parts of Chania and surrounding coastal villages reported feeling a brief but noticeable vibration, though no damages or injuries have been reported so far. The earthquake was shallow enough to be perceptible, yet not strong enough to cause concern, according to preliminary assessments.

Experts explain that seismic activity in the Hellenic Arc, where Crete lies, is common due to the subduction of the African tectonic plate beneath the Eurasian plate. This region frequently experiences moderate tremors, which help release built-up geological stress without leading to major earthquakes.

Authorities continue to monitor the area for any aftershocks, while local emergency services confirmed that no disruptions have occurred in transportation, utilities, or public safety operations.

Magnitude: 4.1
Depth: 31.3 km
Epicentre: Latitude/longitude 35.376°N / 23.0127°E
Intensity: III Weak near the epicentre

October 16, 2025, 07:20 a.m. local time: Moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.5 off Zakros

A moderate earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Zakros, in the Lassithi region of Crete, earlier today. According to preliminary data from the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, the tremor occurred at a shallow depth, making it noticeable across eastern Crete but without reports of damage or injuries so far.

The epicenter was located southeast of Zakros, an area known for frequent seismic activity due to its position along the Hellenic Arc, one of the most active tectonic zones in the Mediterranean. Residents in nearby towns such as Sitia and Ierapetra reported light shaking lasting a few seconds.

Local authorities and the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP) are monitoring the situation closely, reminding residents that such moderate tremors are common in the region and typically do not pose serious risks.

Experts emphasize that while the earthquake was not strong enough to cause structural damage, it serves as a reminder of Crete’s seismic nature and the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.

Magnitude: 4.5
Depth: 7.1 km
Epicentre: Latitude/longitude 34.8981°S / 153.649°W
Intensity: V Moderate near the epicentre

Source: NeaKriti

September 13, 2025, 11:44 a.m. local time: Moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.0 off Gavdos

Magnitude: 4.0
Depth: 19.4 km
Epicentre: Latitude/longitude 34.866°N / 24.0445°E
Intensity: III Weak near the epicentre

Source: NeaKriti

August 20, 2025, 5:27 p.m. local time: Moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.2 off Palaichora

Magnitude: 4.2
Depth: 28.6 km
Epicentre: Latitude/longitude 35.4758°N / 23.4421°E
Intensity: IV Moderate near the epicentre

Quelle: Volcano Discovery

August 18, 2025, until 3:11 p.m. local time: Three earthquakes near Chania

Moderate earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale at 3:11 p.m. local time, a weak earthquake measuring 3.8 on the Richter scale at 3:02 p.m. and another weak earthquake measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale at 6:13 a.m.

The moderate earthquake at 3:11 p.m. had the following values:

Magnitude: 4.1
Depth: 6.3 km
Epicentre: Latitude/longitude 35.0591°N / 23.441°E
Intensity: III Weak near the epicentre

Source: Hania News

July 31, 2025, 7:26 and 8:59 a.m. local time: Two weak earthquakes measuring 3.3 and 3.9 off the Chrysi Island

Since these were two earthquakes within a short period of time at the same location, and one of them was only slightly below the guideline value specified here, they should not be concealed.

The stronger quake had the following values:

Magnitude: 3.9
Depth: 10.6 km
Epicentre: Latitude/Longitude 34.91°N / 25.5917°E
Intensity: IV Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Nea Kriti

23 Juli 2025, 16:26 local time: Strong earthquake measuring 5.1 strikes northwest Crete

Magnitude: 5.1
Depth: 59 km
Epicentre: Latitude/Longitude 35.7999°N / 23.4952°E
Intensity: IV Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Volcano Discovery

7 July 2025, 20:46 local time: Strong earthquake measuring 5.0 off the east coast of Crete

Magnitude: 5.0
Depth: 7.8 km
Epicentre: Latitude/Longitude 35.1993°N / 26.5823°E (31 km east of Zakros)
Intensity: V Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Volcano Discovery

24 June 2025, 07:12 local time: Moderate earthquake measuring 4.1 off the east coast of Crete

Magnitude: 4.1
Depth: 6.2 km
Epicentre: Latitude/Longitude 35.2377°N / 26.6556°E (between eastern Crete and Kasos)
Intensity: IV Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Volcano Discovery

20 June 2025, 4:53 p.m. local time: Moderate earthquake measuring 4.5 near Palaiochora

Magnitude: 4.5
Depth: 32 km
Epicentre: Latitude / Longitude 34.9155°N / 23.4164°E Greece
Intensity: IV Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Volcano Discovery

17 June 2025, 6:38 p.m.: Moderate earthquake measuring 4.2 off the coast of Gavdos

Magnitude: 4.2
Depth: 10.8 km
Epicentre: Latitude / Longitude 34.8761°N / 24.0985°E Greece
Intensity: IV, Moderate near the epicentre

Source: Volcano Discovery

Understanding Intensity and the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale

Ever wonder what exactly people mean when they talk about the “strength” of an earthquake? That’s called its intensity—basically, how much shaking folks actually feel where they are.

Intensity isn’t the same thing as magnitude, which is all about the energy released at the quake’s source. Intensity is more personal; it’s about how strongly the quake hit a specific spot.

The Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale is the usual go-to for describing this. It ranks shaking from I (not felt) to X (extreme shaking). The scale uses Roman numerals and sometimes colors to help visualize it, which is kind of handy:

• I to II: Not felt or barely felt
• III to IV: Weak to light shaking
• V and above: Moderate to strong shaking

How intense the shaking feels depends on a mix of things—how powerful the quake was, how deep underground it started, and how far away you are from the epicentre.

If you’re close to the epicentre, chances are you’ll feel it more. Not exactly a surprise, right?

Recent earthquakes near Crete:

Earthquake simulator at the Natural History Museum:

More about Earthquakes on Crete and Crete is a risk area for strong earthquakes and tsunamis.

How do you protect yourself during earthquakes?

Protection from earthquakes involves preparation before an earthquake and acting safely during an earthquake. Here’s what you should do:

Before an earthquake

1) Prepare an emergency kit: Include water, food, a torch, batteries, first aid supplies, important documents and medications.

2) Secure the room:
– Fasten shelves securely to the walls.
– Place heavy objects on the lower shelves.
– Secure televisions, computers and other heavy items.
– Know how to switch off gas, water and electricity.

3) Create a family emergency plan:
– Know safe places in each room (under sturdy tables, on interior walls).
– Plan and practise evacuation routes.

During an earthquake

If you are in the house:

DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON:
– Drop to your hands and knees (before you’re knocked down).
– Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk. If there’s nothing to hide under, cover your head and neck with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
– Hold On to your shelter until the shaking stops.
– Keep away from windows, glass and heavy objects that could fall.
– Do not run outside during the quake.

If you are outdoors:

– Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights and power lines.
– Stay there until the quake stops.

If you are in a vehicle:

– Stop as quickly and safely as possible.
– Stay inside the vehicle.
– Avoid stopping on bridges, in tunnels or under overpasses.

After an earthquake

– Check yourself and others for injuries.
– Be prepared for aftershocks.
– Inspect the house for damage and hazards (gas leaks, fire, etc.).
– Listen to emergency announcements for information and instructions.
– Use the telephone only in emergencies.

Important notes:
Most earthquake injuries are caused by falling objects and debris, not building collapses. Protect your head and neck and stay calm.

Information from the Greek Civil Protection for earthquakes (in English)

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