Thessaloniki (Greece): A strong earthquake jolted the Greek tourist island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea on Thursday. 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).

As per agency sources, the tremors could be strongly felt in the tourist hotspot island of Zante.

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.

More details on the extent of damage caused and the number of casualties are awaited.