4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Eastern Crete, No Damage Reported

Saturday, 23 May 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck near Sitia, in the Lasithi region of eastern Crete. Sitia is a coastal town popular with visitors for its Venetian fort, local wine production, and access to the palm beach of Vai. Earthquakes of this magnitude are common in the region, as Crete sits in one of Europe's most seismically active zones, and events at this level rarely cause structural damage or pose a serious risk to people. No damage or injuries have been reported. Tourists currently in or traveling to eastern Crete, including Sitia, Ierapetra, or the Lasithi Plateau, can continue their plans without concern. If you feel a tremor, standard advice applies: move away from windows, stay calm, and follow guidance from local authorities. Aftershocks of smaller magnitude are possible in the days following.