The March 2021 Thessaly earthquakes and their impact through the prism of a multi-hazard approach in disaster management

In early March 2021, when Greece was struggling with the evolving third wave of COVID-19 pandemic highest numbers daily cases and fatalities from its initiation, Thessaly struck by a seismic sequence, which included 3 March, Mw = 6.3 mainshock, strongest 6.1 aftershock following day numerous large aftershocks. The mainshock caused extensive damage to houses infrastructure, while aggravated widespread concern among residents. Based on post-event field surveys in affected area, it is concluded that old unreinforced load-bearing masonry walls northeastern part basin suffered most, recent constructions remained intact. As result, hundreds homeless were need immediate temporary sheltering, immediately mobilized Civil Protection authorities manage emergency situation. This had something unique, made management challenge: implementation earthquake response actions incompatible measures limit further spread SARS-CoV-2 virus community during wave. Many have been adapted unprecedented conditions through prism multi-hazard approach disaster their impact. Among others, more different types shelters used prevent overcrowding, supplies distribution processes modified transmission hands surfaces, places for identification isolation suspected designated regular screening testing local population conducted detection virus. From analysis reported earthquake-affected area pre- post- periods as well results rapid post-disaster period, found viral load villages not increased, despite difficult conditions. It can be suggested adaptation new has worked beneficially reduce those involved staff. For this reason, could considered good practice important lesson learned, applied similar future compound emergencies areas geoenvironmental epidemiological characteristics.