Recently, there have been frequent earthquakes in the waters near the popular tourist destination of Santorini Island in Greece. Since January 24th, hundreds of earthquakes have been recorded in the area, with several of them measuring over 4 on the Richter scale. While there have been no reports of casualties, some buildings have developed cracks, prompting thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate the island as a precaution.
Santorini Island, part of the Cyclades group of islands, is a renowned tourist spot that attracts millions of visitors each year, but it is currently in the off-season. Since January 24th, around 750 earthquakes have occurred on the island and within a 1000 square kilometer area surrounding it, with over 200 earthquakes recorded just between January 31st and February 2nd. The largest earthquake so far happened in the early hours of Tuesday, February 4th, measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or significant property damage thus far. However, some old buildings have sustained cracks, coastal areas have experienced landslides, and the iconic red beach has been closed. Authorities have implemented various preventive measures in response to the situation.
Vassilis Kikilias, the Minister of Climate and Civil Protection, stated that firefighting teams specializing in natural disasters have been dispatched to Santorini Island. Rescue teams equipped with search dogs and mobile command centers have also been deployed to the island, with helicopters on standby to address any emergencies that may arise.
Reportedly, over 11,000 people have chosen to evacuate the area by ferry or plane. The coast guard and armed forces have been sent to Santorini Island to assist vulnerable groups with voluntary evacuations, while residents have been advised to avoid congregating indoors and stay away from densely built areas.
Simultaneously, schools on Santorini Island and several surrounding islands have been closed and will remain so until Friday, with further decisions on reopening to be made by local authorities.
Greek officials have clarified that although the island is part of a volcanic archipelago, the current seismic activity is not related to volcanic eruptions but rather plate tectonics.
Seismologists have noted that such prolonged earthquake activity in the region has not been recorded since 1964. It is anticipated that seismic activity will continue in the area for some time, although the exact timing, location, and magnitude of future earthquakes remain unpredictable.