Emergency measures are underway on the popular Greek island of Santorini following significant seismic activity, raising alarm among locals and tourists alike. Authorities closed schools and deployed emergency crews on Monday after the volcanic island experienced more than 300 tremors over three days, with magnitudes reaching up to 5 on the Richter scale.
The National Observatory of Athens has reported the recent spike of undersea earthquakes, marking the highest activity level seen since 2012. The series of earthquakes has prompted cautionary responses on Santorini and nearby islands, known for their picturesque landscapes and summer tourism peaks.
Precautions implemented included closure of schools and setting up tents on football fields to accommodate any necessary evacuations. Emergency preparations also featured fire service teams equipped with sniffer dogs and established evacuation gathering points, with authorities advising hotels to drain swimming pools as part of their response.
Efthymios Lekkas, president of Greece's Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, emphasized to the Greek national news agency AMNA, “There is no link between the current seismic activity and the activity observed in the volcanic area.” This assures residents and visitors alike — as Santorini lies within the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, known for historical eruptions including one 3,600 years ago, which led to devastating consequences like tsunami impacts on Crete.
Despite the tremors, local scientists calmed fears about the current series of earthquakes being linked to volcanic activities. Lekkas stated they do not expect quakes to exceed magnitude 6, but warned residents to prepare for seismic activity lasting several weeks. At the same time, he noted the situation differs significantly from the 1956 magnitude 7 earthquake on the island, which resulted in fatalities and damage.
George Halaris, owner of a local tourist shop, reflected the general sentiment on the island: “At this time of year, we do not have many foreigners visiting, and it is understandable... Locals are calm. We are on alert, but we do not panic.” This statement highlights the resilience and composed atmosphere among the local population, even as tourists pack their bags and head for safety.
With Santorini home to about 20,000 permanent residents and welcoming over three million visitors annually, the response to this earthquake swarm hinges on the island’s preparedness and historical experiences of seismic events. While many visitors might be wary, the longstanding familiarity with minor tremors is ingrained among residents.
Seismologists clarify the nature of the earthquakes aligns more with tectonic movement rather than volcanic activity, indicating the natural seismic environment of Greece, which is continually shaped by various fault lines.
Authorities remain vigilant, continually analyzing the situation as seismic activity evolves. The last recorded significant earthquake underwater serves as both reminder and reassurance, as most tremors felt here tend not to lead to extreme geological events or volcanic eruption.
Concerns were heightened for vacation planners drawn to the summer charms of the island, as the Aegean Sea’s popularity spikes during this season. Those remaining on Santorini have been advised to stay vigilant, avoid indoor gatherings, and be mindful of safety measures advised by local authorities during this unpredictable phase.
The government’s swift actions and community calmness are pivotal as Santorini navigates this period of increased seismic activity, ensuring safety protocols and readiness remain prioritized for all—locals and tourists alike—who find themselves captivated by the island’s enchanting vistas.