The Greek island of Santorini is on high alert after more than 200 minor earthquakes shook the region within 48 hours. The strongest tremor, measuring 4.6 magnitude, struck between Santorini and Amorgos on Sunday afternoon.
Authorities closed schools, issued safety advisories, and deployed emergency teams as they braced for the possibility of stronger aftershocks.
Authorities Respond With Emergency Measures
In response to the seismic activity, Greece’s civil protection agency announced precautionary measures, including:
- Closure of schools until further notice
- Evacuation plans for certain areas
- Deployment of rescue teams with drones, helicopters, and search dogs
- Public advisories urging people to avoid large gatherings and hazardous locations
Authorities also advised citizens to stay away from ports, abandoned buildings, and empty swimming pools, as structural damage remains a concern.
Experts Rule Out Volcanic Eruption but Warn of Risks
Although Santorini sits on the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, experts believe the tremors are tectonic rather than volcanic.
Geophysics professor Kostas Papazachos emphasized that while a volcanic eruption is unlikely, the region remains vulnerable due to its location near major fault lines.
“When you have such an intense sequence of earthquakes, you must be cautious, as a stronger tremor could follow,” he said.
Prime Minister Calls Emergency Meeting
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis scheduled an emergency meeting on Sunday to assess the situation. Meanwhile, the fire service in the southern Aegean Sea remains on high alert.
Tourism Concerns Amid Seismic Activity
Santorini, one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, has a small population of 15,500 but hosted 3.4 million visitors in 2023. The recent tremors have raised concerns over the impact on tourism and safety.
Authorities are urging both locals and tourists to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines in case of further seismic activity.