Investigations in the Voutes area of Heraklion, Crete, to determine the cause and assess the situation regarding the sudden appearance of extensive ground cracks reported the last 48 hours began early Monday morning, April 28. The fissures have disrupted private yards, the grounds of a local church, and sections of nearby roads, raising concerns among the local population.
Professor Efthymios Lekkas, president of the Greek Permanent Special Scientific Committee for Seismic Risk Assessment, explained that the mapping and inspection of the cracks are being conducted with specialized equipment and the use of drones.
“Today, with the help of machinery and drones, we aim to produce a more detailed mapping of the cracks,” said Lekkas, noting that the investigations will also examine the area’s morphology and other geological conditions in an effort to uncover the causes.
He pointed out that the fissures first appeared about a week ago. “There was certainly something pre-existing here — that’s what we’re now trying to determine,” he added.
The professor arrived in Crete on Sunday afternoon, April 27, following an order from General Secretary for Civil Protection and in coordination with the Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
Risk of Expansion Remains
According to Lekkas, the phenomenon is still unfolding, and there is a real risk it could expand. “We are dealing with two separate ground ruptures, each approximately 150 meters long, located at different points in the village. These fissures have already caused failures in structures — affecting homes, public spaces, and utility networks. It is a purely geological phenomenon, and it remains active,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Heraklion Mayor Alexis Kalokairinos stated that all inhabited homes showing signs of cracking will be inspected to assess the level of risk. An official request is also expected to be submitted today to the relevant authorities, seeking to have the area declared in a state of emergency.
