Turkish seismologist Süleyman Pampal has stated that the likelihood of a 7–8 magnitude earthquake occurring in the Aegean Sea, particularly around the islands of Crete and Rhodes, has increased.

Axar.az reports that according to the scientist, this forecast is linked to the recent rise in seismic activity observed along Turkiye’s coasts, especially in the Marmara region.

“We are facing an unusual situation in Balıkesir province. Every day, tremors of 4–5 magnitude are recorded here, and recently we’ve experienced two earthquakes measuring 6 magnitude. A similar situation has been observed this year in the Aegean Sea as well. The edge of the African tectonic plate’s fracture zone is approaching the magma layer and moving eastward. This condition increases the likelihood of a strong earthquake between Crete and Rhodes, which could reach a magnitude of 7–8,” he said.

According to the seismologist, the growing seismic risk in the region should be considered a serious warning signal.