Vacationing in the Mediterranean: Navigating Earthquake Risks
Potential seismic dangers in the Mediterranean: An analysis. - Risk Assessment for Earthquakes in the Mediterranean Region
When the ground shook in Naples, Rhodes, and the Turkish coast, vacationers began to ask a challenging question - is it safe to travel to the Mediterranean? But fear not, because according to seismologist Marco Bohnhoff from the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, these events are common in certain regions, particularly southern Greece, western Turkey, and Italy. So, if you've booked your summer getaway to these popular destinations, let's discuss some earthquake preparedness tips.
Staying Safe: Your Escape Plan
While it's essential to be prepared for emergencies, Bohnhoff assures us that strong earthquakes occur infrequently. To minimize the risks, ask your hotel about a safe room and the emergency exit plan. During an earthquake, it's advisable to stay inside the building to avoid any injuries caused by flying debris. Once the shaking stops, move outside and attempt to move as far away from buildings as possible.
Be aware that aftershocks are common after significant earthquakes, and despite being weaker, they could bring down buildings damaged during the initial quake. In the aftermath of a strong Mediterranean earthquake, there's also a risk of a tsunami, especially if you're near the coast. If this occurs, quickly run to higher ground. While the odds of a tsunami are low, it can pose a severe danger to life.
Popular Destinations with Seismic Activity
- Greece (Crete, Rhodes, Athens, Santorini): Known as one of Europe's most seismically active countries, Greece is prone to earthquakes, especially in the Aegean Sea region, including Crete, Rhodes, Athens, and Santorini. In May and June 2025, the region experienced a string of strong earthquakes above 6.0 magnitude[1][2][5].
- Italy (Naples, Catania): Italy, especially Naples and Catania, carries a recognized seismic risk. The Campanian volcanic area near Naples witnesses numerous earthquakes due to its fault zones[2][3].
- Turkey (Istanbul, Izmir, Marmaris, Fethiye): Turkey's western parts, including Istanbul, Izmir, and tourist destinations such as Marmaris and Fethiye, face a high earthquake risk. With a 5.8 magnitude earthquake in western Turkey in June 2025, the destination is under continuous monitoring[2][5].
Preparing for a Safe Vacation
Despite the recent increase in seismic activity in southern Europe, the risk remains manageable with proper precautions and awareness[3][4]. Tourists should familiarize themselves with safety measures and local guidelines to enjoy their vacations worry-free.
In case of a tremor, follow the guidance from local authorities, and remember to prioritize staying safe over panicking.
- Earthquakes
- Mediterranean
- Summer vacation
- Italy
- Greece
- Turkey
- Naples
- Crete
- Rhodes / Istanbul
- Izmir
- Marmaris
- Fethiye / Santorini
- Catania
Sources:
[1] Seismology Research Centre
[2] USGS Earthquakes
[3] British Geological Survey
[4] World Bank
[5] European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre
- Despite the Mediterranean's seismically active regions like Italy, Greece, and Turkey, a summer vacation can still be safe with proper preparation, understanding of local safety measures, and adherence to earthquake preparedness tips.
- For those planning to travel to popular Mediterranean destinations such as Naples, Rhodes, and Istanbul, it's crucial to consider environmental-science factors like earthquake risks and establish an escape plan.
- While science has made significant strides in biotechnology, as exemplified by the Commission's proposal for a European Agency, it's equally important to ensure that lifestyle choices, such as vacationing in earthquake-prone areas, are based on informed decisions and proper precautions.
