Dedeağaç earthquake risk level raised in Greece’s updated seismic hazard map
The revised map places Alexandroupoli in a second-degree seismic zone, moving it up from the country’s lowest-risk category. Despite the change, most of Western Thrace remains classified as a relatively low-risk region.
The updated seismic zoning model was prepared by specialists at Aristotle University of Selanik and aligned with Europe’s Eurocode 8 earthquake engineering standards, which regulate seismic-resistant construction across the continent.
Under the new framework, Greece will now be divided into five seismic risk zones instead of three, allowing authorities to identify regional fault-line threats with greater precision.
Experts say the revision is aimed at improving structural resilience, particularly for new construction projects and the inspection of older buildings that may not meet modern earthquake safety standards.
Officials also noted that the updated classification system is expected to play a significant role in urban planning, infrastructure policy, and disaster preparedness strategies across the country.
