tourism

Earthquakes Force Evacuation of Crete's Samaria Gorge

Saturday, 20 June 2026/Source: Keep Talking Greece/1 min read

Two earthquakes measuring 5.3 and 4.7 on the Richter scale struck Crete on Saturday, June 20, 2026, around midday. As a precautionary measure, the Samaria Gorge was immediately closed and several hundred hikers inside the gorge were evacuated. The Samaria Gorge, located in the White Mountains of western Crete, is one of the island's most popular hiking destinations and typically requires a full day to complete. If you had planned to hike the gorge, check with local authorities or your accommodation before heading out, as the site may remain closed pending safety inspections. Aftershocks are possible following earthquakes of this magnitude. Earthquakes are not uncommon in Crete due to its position on active fault lines, but structural damage to tourist areas has not been reported at this time. Monitor official updates before visiting affected areas.

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