Seismic activity around Santorini has intensified, prompting the Greek Civil Protection to declare a state of emergency lasting until March 3. Recent tremors have included a notable 5.2 magnitude quake, with over 11,000 residents evacuating. While no injuries have been reported, experts warn that the unusual seismic disturbances pose risks, including potential landslides. Enhanced transport services and school closures have been implemented as precautionary measures, and additional monitoring equipment has been installed on the island.
Seismic Activity Intensifies Around Santorini
The earth is shaking around various Greek islands, with Santorini experiencing a remarkable surge in seismic activity. A fresh wave of tremors occurred from Wednesday evening through Thursday, including one that registered over a magnitude of 5. In response, the Greek Civil Protection has declared a ‘state of emergency’ for the iconic island, a measure that will last until March 3. This declaration is aimed at addressing urgent needs and managing the aftermath of the recent seismic events.
Impact on Residents and Precautionary Measures
On Thursday morning alone, seven consecutive earthquakes, each above a magnitude of 4, were documented by the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, the leading authority on seismic data in Greece. The most significant tremor, measuring 5.2, was detected on Wednesday evening.
Experts are cautious, unable to predict the conclusion of this unusual seismic activity, which has so far resulted in no injuries or significant damage. They highlight that this level of seismic disturbance is unprecedented, noting that the region has not witnessed such occurrences since monitoring began in 1964. Athanassios Ganas, the research director at the institute, commented on public television that while ‘the intensity is decreasing, it has not yet stabilized.’
Government representatives, including spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, emphasized that ‘the entire state mechanism is mobilized’ to avert potential issues. A new digital platform named ‘mysafetyplan’ is set to be launched shortly, aimed at keeping the public informed about earthquakes and other natural disasters.
Since the seismic activity began, over 11,000 residents and seasonal workers have evacuated Santorini through maritime and aerial means, with transport operators enhancing ferry and flight services. Schools across numerous Cycladic islands have been closed as a safety measure until Friday, prompting many families to temporarily relocate until the situation stabilizes.
Renowned for its stunning views, Santorini is built on a volcano that last erupted in 1950. However, experts have clarified that the recent tremors are ‘not related to volcanic activity.’ In a proactive move, rescue teams have been dispatched to the island, and additional seismic monitoring equipment has been installed.
Efthymios Lekkas, director of the Greek Authority for Earthquake Planning and Protection, has flagged the risk of landslides across the Santorini caldera slopes, especially considering the influx of tourists the island attracts year-round. With a population of around 15,500, Santorini welcomed approximately 3.4 million visitors in 2023, further underscoring the importance of safety measures in this popular destination.