Strong earthquake hits Greek tourist island in Ionian Sea

A strong earthquake has shaken the Greek tourist island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea.

The US Geological Survey says the 6.8 magnitude quake was 35.9 kilometres southwest of Lithakia in the southern part of Zakynthos. It had a depth of 16 kilometres and struck at 22:55 GMT (4:25 am IST) on Thursday.

Greece lies in one of the world’s most earthquake-prone regions, with thousands of quakes recorded every year. But few cause injuries or significant damage.