Heraklion: Significant Cracks in Buildings in Boutes Without an Earthquake – Euthymios Lekkas Conducts On-site Investigation

Significant cracks have been observed in courtyards, around a church, and parts of the roads in Boutes, causing alarm among residents. More than 20 homes in Boutes, Heraklion, have suffered damage and subsidence, with road issues also reported. Officials from the Heraklion municipality, accompanied by geologists, are examining the evolving phenomenon. On Sunday morning, Heraklion Mayor Alexis Kalokairinos visited the site along with Deputy Mayor for Technical Infrastructure George Sisamakis and a team of engineers to assess the severity of the situation. According to Mayor Kalokairinos, “the phenomenon is ongoing, and we must address the situation immediately.” The municipality will request the declaration of the village as being in a state of emergency. These cracks are likely due to ground subsidence, according to Kalokairinos, who noted that they will proceed with an immediate assessment of the potential risk to homes. A team of engineers will be on-site Monday morning for the initial evaluation. This is a high-priority issue requiring specialized study, with experts expected from Athens, necessitating central government support. Euthymios Lekkas, President of the Permanent Special Scientific Committee for Seismic Risk Assessment, is conducting an on-site investigation into the extensive cracking in Boutes, aiming to determine the causes, assess the possibility of expansion to neighboring areas, and implement immediate measures.