4.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Evia Causing Structural Damage

A 4.5 magnitude earthquake struck Northern Evia, Greece, early Monday morning, with its epicenter near the village of Prokopi. The quake, felt as far as Athens, is part of a series of seismic events in the region, including two other quakes above magnitude 3.6 within 24 hours. Authorities have reported damage to over 50 houses, municipal buildings, and schools, but no injuries have been reported. Experts, including the president of the Hellenic Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization, stress that this seismic activity is typical for the region's tectonic setting and expect magnitudes to remain below 5.5, though they caution residents to avoid damaged or old buildings until inspections are complete. The area experienced a similar 5.1 magnitude earthquake in November 2023, and while there is some risk of a stronger quake, officials remain cautiously optimistic about the situation. Ongoing inspections and monitoring continue as authorities respond swiftly to the event.