4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Central Greece, Causes Brief Disruptions

Moderate Earthquake Strikes Central Greece

A moderate earthquake, measuring 4.4 on the Richter scale, rattled parts of Central Greece early on Saturday, January 10, 2026. The tremor occurred at 06:53 local time, causing widespread shaking across the regional unit of Phthiotis and surrounding areas. While the event led to brief travel disruptions and unsettled residents, authorities have confirmed no serious injuries or major structural damage.

Event Details and Epicenter

According to data from the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens (NOA), the earthquake's epicenter was located near the town of Xyniada, within the broader Domokos municipality. This places the seismic activity approximately 13 to 16 kilometers north of Lamia, the capital of Phthiotis. The quake registered a relatively shallow focal depth of around 10 to 11.4 kilometers, which contributed to it being widely felt despite its moderate magnitude.

Impact and Response

Residents across Phthiotis, parts of Fthiotida, and neighboring prefectures reported intense shaking that lasted several seconds, leading to alarms sounding and objects falling from shelves. The earthquake prompted immediate alerts and precautionary measures. Travel across the affected region experienced short-lived disruptions, with train operators temporarily slowing or suspending services for inspections of tracks, bridges, and tunnels. Regional bus services also reported brief delays. Local authorities and Greece's civil protection services swiftly assessed the situation, dispatching teams to inspect public buildings, roadways, and key infrastructure. By late morning, they confirmed that there were no reports of serious structural damage or casualties, although minor cracks and superficial damage were noted in a handful of older structures.

Greece's Seismic Landscape

Greece is situated on a complex tectonic boundary where the African and Eurasian plates interact, making it one of the most seismically active regions in Europe. Earthquakes are a common occurrence, and the country has robust building codes, particularly for newer constructions, that emphasize earthquake resistance. This adherence to modern construction standards is credited with mitigating the potential for large-scale structural failures during moderate seismic events like the one experienced in Phthiotis. Seismological institutes continue to monitor the region for aftershocks, and officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and follow basic safety advice.