After being hit by a 4.8-magnitude earthquake on June 12, the Greek island of Rhodes has this morning been rocked by another tremor, at a magnitude of 4.7.
This second earthquake is the latest in a string of natural disasters and climate-related extreme weather events in Greece and the Mediterranean. Last month, parts of Greece are scorching in a 43C heatwave – the earliest heatwave the country has ever seen – leading to tourist attractions including the Acropolis closing in Athens. Nearby Cyprus has seen a wildfire break out around the city of Paphos. Since then, fires have also spread on the islands if Kos, Chios and Crete, and last summer, wildfires on Rhodes led to evacuations last summer.
Understandably, those with trips booked to Rhodes might be wondering if it’s safe to travel to the island following the second earthquake. Here’s what we know so far.
Is it safe to travel to Rhodes in Greece?
Yes. There are no reports from local media on this just yet, but based on the minimal damage that was suffered after last month’s earthquake, the impact is hopefully not extensive. Flights continued to run after June’s 4.8 magnitude earthquake, and no advice against travelling to Greece was issued at the time.
Where was impacted by the earthquake?
While tremors were felt in Rhodes, the earthquake’s epicentre was detected 25km north of the island. Tremors were also felt in Türkiye.
What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip?
As the UK Foreign Office has not officially advised against travelling to Greece, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your trip without penalties. Your best bet is to check directly with your airline or travel provider.
What are the UK Foreign Office recommending?
Greece, as with the previous earthquake, is still safe to travel to, according to the UK Foreign Office. Their safety and security page has the following advice on earthquakes.
Greece can experience earthquakes and earth tremors. You should:
- familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake
- follow advice given by the local authorities
- call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
The Greek General Secretariat for Civil Protection website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake, and reports on incidents.
What’s happening in the rest of Greece?
Greece recently experienced its earliest-ever heatwave, meaning the government had to suspend schools and close the Acropolis (the country’s most popular tourist attraction) due to extreme temperatures of up to 43C. Cyprus, Kos, Chios and Crete have been experiencing wildfires over the last few weeks.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.