A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck the coasts of Turkey and Greece, causing panic and injuries. The quake’s epicenter was near Marmaris, Turkey, affecting nearby Greek islands like Rhodes. This event highlights the region’s seismic activity and the importance of preparedness.
The earthquake resulted in one reported death and numerous injuries, with tourists and locals experiencing shaking and panic. Emergency services were quickly deployed to assess the damage and assist those affected. The incident underscores the need for robust building standards and emergency response systems in earthquake-prone areas.
This article provides up-to-date information on the earthquake, including its impact on Turkey and Greece, the immediate aftermath, and expert assessments. We will cover tourist experiences, safety advice, and the broader implications for the region. Stay tuned for the latest developments on this unfolding situation.
Immediate Aftermath of the Earthquake
Early Tuesday morning, a powerful 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck Turkey and Greece, creating widespread panic. The quake, which occurred just outside the Turkish resort town of Marmaris, was felt strongly in Rhodes and other Greek islands. Initial reports confirmed one death and at least 69 injuries as people rushed to safety.
According to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the earthquake’s epicenter was located at a depth of 68 kilometers (42 miles). While there was no immediate tsunami alert, the heavy shaking caused significant concern among residents and tourists alike.
Tourists in Rhodes recounted waking up to shaking hotels and scenes of panic, as reported by The Independent. Many locals in Mugla, Turkey, were hospitalized with injuries sustained while trying to evacuate their homes. The rapid response of disaster management teams was crucial in assessing the damage and providing aid.
The mayor of Marmaris, Acar Unlu, informed NTV that teams were actively evaluating the extent of the damage. The Turkish interior minister, Ali Yerlikaya, confirmed the death of a 14-year-old child in Fethiye. These immediate reports highlight the earthquake’s severe impact and the urgent need for ongoing support and assessment.
Experiences of Tourists in Rhodes
Tourists in Rhodes experienced frightening moments as the earthquake struck, with many describing their hotels shaking violently. Matthew McCormick, a tourist from Belfast, shared his experience with The Independent, recounting how he and his family were awakened by a loud rumbling noise. His four-year-old daughter was terrified as the hotel shook.
Despite the overnight disturbance, McCormick reported no visible damage to his hotel. However, the experience left a lasting impression, highlighting the vulnerability of tourists in such situations. State broadcaster ERT noted that tourists began returning to the beaches in Rhodes despite the earthquake and aftershocks, indicating a sense of resilience and the importance of tourism to the local economy.
Giorgos Hadjimarkos, the regional governor of the South Aegean, which includes Rhodes and Santorini, assured tourists that assessments showed only minor material damage. He also stated that there was no risk of stronger aftershocks, providing some reassurance to concerned visitors. Emergency teams worked through the night to check for structural damage, particularly in schools and public buildings.
These accounts from tourists and local officials paint a picture of initial panic followed by a gradual return to normalcy. However, they also underscore the need for clear communication and safety measures to protect tourists during seismic events.
Expert Assessment and Aftershocks
In the aftermath of the earthquake, seismologist Efthymios Lekkas, head of Greece’s state-run Earthquake Risk Assessment Committee, stated that there was no cause for significant concern. Speaking to Mega channel, Lekkas explained that the earthquake’s intensity was due to its depth, which covered a larger surface area. However, he noted that the seismic waves did not have enough energy to cause extensive surface damage.
A magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Crete shortly after the initial quake. Athanasios Ganas, director of research at the Geodynamic Institute, clarified that the two earthquakes were not connected, though both are part of the Hellenic arc. He also noted that the Crete earthquake was unrelated to the 2020 earthquake south of Ierapetra.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued new travel advice related to the earthquake as of Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The FCDO’s general advice for Turkey states that many parts of the country regularly experience earthquakes and tremors, which can be high magnitude and cause damage to infrastructure.
These expert assessments and travel advisories provide crucial context for understanding the risks and safety measures needed in the region. While the immediate threat may have subsided, ongoing vigilance and preparedness remain essential.
Practical Travel Advice
For those with holidays booked in Turkey or Rhodes, travel correspondent Simon Calder advises continuing as normal. He notes that holiday companies are unlikely to allow cancellations without the usual penalties. While there may be options to move holidays to other locations, such flexibility depends on availability.
Calder emphasizes that earthquakes are not uncommon in this region and, while disconcerting, do not necessarily warrant drastic action. Travelers should stay informed, monitor local news, and follow any guidance provided by their hotels or tour operators.
The FCDO’s travel advice for Greece notes that the Cycladic islands experienced increased earthquake activity in early 2025, but this has since subsided. The tourist season is expected to continue without disruption. Travelers should be aware of the risk of aftershocks and prepared for potential disruptions.
Overall, it is important to remain calm, stay informed, and follow the advice of local authorities and travel professionals. Being prepared and aware can help mitigate potential risks and ensure a safer travel experience.
Impact on Local Communities
The earthquake had a significant impact on local communities in both Turkey and Greece. In Mugla, Turkey, approximately 70 people were injured, with many hurt while trying to rush out of their homes. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that 14 people were treated at the scene, eight were briefly treated and discharged, and 46 remained hospitalized.
One unidentified woman in Armutalan, Turkey, recounted the moment the earthquake damaged her home. She described being awakened by violent shaking, flashing lights, and the sound of smashing glass. The plaster from the walls was torn, and she saw large cracks, leaving her terrified.
Despite the damage and injuries, there have been efforts to restore normalcy. State broadcaster ERT reported that tourists began returning to beaches in Rhodes, and emergency teams worked through the night to assess structural damage, particularly in schools and public buildings. Giorgos Hadjimarkos, regional governor of the South Aegean, reassured tourists that there was no risk of stronger aftershocks.
These local accounts highlight the immediate challenges faced by residents and the ongoing efforts to ensure safety and stability in the affected areas. The resilience of these communities is evident in their quick response and determination to return to normal life.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
The 5.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Greece serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic activity and the importance of preparedness. The immediate aftermath saw panic, injuries, and damage, but also a swift response from emergency services and local authorities.
Tourists in Rhodes experienced frightening moments, with hotels shaking and scenes of panic. However, officials have reassured visitors that the risk of further aftershocks is low, and many have returned to their holidays. Expert assessments indicate that the earthquake’s depth mitigated the potential for more extensive surface damage.
For travelers with upcoming trips, it is advisable to stay informed and follow the guidance of travel professionals. While the situation is under control, vigilance and preparedness are key to ensuring a safe travel experience. The resilience of local communities and the support of emergency teams are helping to restore normalcy in the affected areas.
In conclusion, the Turkey-Greece earthquake underscores the need for robust building standards, effective emergency response systems, and clear communication to protect both residents and tourists in earthquake-prone regions. As the situation continues to unfold, ongoing monitoring and support will be essential.
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