Greece has declared a state of emergency on the island of Santorini as the region experiences what seismologists are calling an unprecedented "earthquake swarm." Nearly 12,000 residents and seasonal workers have evacuated the island due to the frequency and intensity of seismic activity, which has seen thousands of tremors since the end of January 2023. The strongest of these disturbances reached 5.2 magnitude, recorded on February 1, sending shockwaves felt as far away as the capital city, Athens.
According to government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, emergency services have been mobilized to assist the island and prepare for potential consequences as tremors continue to rattle the area. "All plans have been implemented. Forces have been moved to Santorini and the other islands, so we are ready for any eventuality," stated Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during a meeting with civil protection experts.
The beginnings of this seismic activity were subtle, starting with minor tremors less than magnitude 3, mostly going unnoticed. By early February, these quakes escalated dramatically—now often occurring several times within minutes of each other. To date, reports indicate over 7,700 earthquakes above magnitude 3 have been recorded, with some reaching notable levels of 4.0 and higher at depths of less than 10 kilometers.
Most concerning was the 5.2 magnitude tremor on February 1 and another sizable quake of 4.6 just hours later, which has prompted fears of potential rockslides and landslides on the island. Dr. Athanassios Ganas, the research director at the National Observatory of Athens, remarked on the unusual pattern of these tremors: “It is really unprecedented, we have never seen something like this before in modern times in Greece.” This statement captures the anxiety and uncertainty surrounding the phenomena as locals and experts alike grapple with the events.
What is particularly alarming for those left on the island is the fear of looting with the majority of the population having abandoned their homes. Reports indicate residents have started patrolling the streets at night due to heightened security concerns. Boats and planes utilized by locals and tourists alike have added extra capacities to facilitate speedy evacuations, and it seems Santorini resembles something of a ghost town.
Rescue teams have been deployed as precautionary measures, and schools across the Cyclades islands have closed temporarily to protect students. The government has also taken steps to secure parts of Santorini at risk of landslides, especially around the main tourist areas.
Despite the significant tremors, officials state no major injuries or catastrophic damages have been reported. Still, as local authorities remain on high alert, they warn of possible higher-magnitude earthquakes, which, though less common, could occur during this intense period.
Predicting when this seismic crisis may end remains challenging. Experts have warned this swarm may persist for days, weeks, or even months without clear indication of when the activity will stabilize. Vassilis K Karastathis, director of research at the National Observatory of Athens, conveyed this uncertainty: “We are still in the middle of the road, we haven’t seen any easing, any sign of regression.”
Such geological unrest forces experts to carefully monitor the situation, especially considering Santorini is part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc known for its historical eruptions and seismic activity. Although the island's last major volcanic eruption occurred over 70 years ago, the current disturbances have spurred fears among residents about possible volcanic activity being imminent.
Physically shaped by one of the largest volcanic eruptions known to history, around 1600 BC, Santorini has drawn millions to its picturesque views and warm climate. It remains to be seen how the economic impact of these seismic activities will reshape the island’s future. Local businesses already feel the strain as tourism dwindles significantly, and officials worry about the long-term effects on one of Greece's most popular destinations.
With the government declaring the state of emergency, effective until March 3, authorities are prepared to provide necessary resources to the islanders throughout this period of turmoil. Extra personnel and emergency services are deployed, including psychological support teams and logistical assistance to manage local needs. The situation remains fluid, and the coming days and weeks will be telling for both the residents of Santorini and for the future of tourism on the island.