Emergency aid on way to Cephalonia after second strong earthquake
Residents of Cephalonia have been advised to stay away from their homes after a second strong earthquake struck the Ionian island early on Monday, causing 16 minor injuries and further damage.
Seismologists indicate that the tremor, almost as strong as last week’s 5.8-Richter quake, was an aftershock following on from Sunday’s earthquake.
The tremor measured 5.7 in magnitude and struck at 05.08 a.m. 12 kilometers northeast of Argostoli, according to the Athens Geodynamic Institute. The United States Geological Survey said the magnitude was 6.1.
Public Order Minister Nikos Dendias was the first government official to visit the island but more representatives followed.
The armed forces implementing an emergency plan reserved for natural disasters, which will see a navy frigate is to transport machinery to the island.
A C-130 cargo plane and a Chinook helicopter are transferring doctors, tents and other supplies to the island.
Two navy ships, the Prometheus and Chios, sailed for Cephalonia on Saturday to transport medicines and basic goods to the Ionian island, which was rocked by an earthquake last Sunday.
Six doctors were on board the ships. The Chios can accommodate 250 people if needed.
A team from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (KEELPNO) is also due on the island to help with first aid.
