Strong quake hits Greek tourist island in Ionian Sea

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

According to the US Geological Survey, the 6.8 magnitude quake was 35.9 km southwest of Lithakia in the southern part of Zakynthos. It had a depth of 16 km 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.

Zakynthos has had severe earthquakes in the past, and as a result, has a very strict building safety code.