4.2-magnitude earthquake strikes northern Evia, felt in Attica
The earthquake occurred at 9:42 a.m. local time on September 18, with the epicentre recorded near Vasilika in the Istiaia area of northern Evia. The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Seismological Station recorded the earthquake at magnitude 4.2 and estimated its focal depth at 7 kilometres.
Initial measurements from the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens placed the epicentre in the sea near the Vasilika area, with early estimates putting the focal depth at around 5 kilometres. Subsequent measurements have differed somewhat on the precise epicentral location and depth.
Tremor felt in Athens and surrounding areas
The earthquake was felt in several parts of Attica, as well as across northern Evia and nearby areas. Reports from Greek media indicated that the shaking was noticeable in Athens, including parts of the capital's northern suburbs.
The relatively shallow depth of the earthquake contributed to the extent to which the tremor was felt, although the reported depth has been revised between preliminary and later seismic assessments.
No immediate reports of damage
There were no immediate reports of casualties, structural damage or other significant problems following the earthquake.
Seismologist Efthymios Lekkas, speaking to ERTnews, said there was no reason for concern based on the available information at the time.
Seismic monitoring stations continued to record smaller earthquakes in the broader northern Evia area following the main tremor. The Aristotle University Seismological Station, for example, recorded a magnitude 2.6 event in the area later that morning.
