Following a rise in tectonic activity that raised concerns about a possible powerful disaster, authorities have increased precautions on the volcanic isle of Santorini, Greece. More than 200 underwater disasters have been reported in the Aegean Sea as of Monday, prompting the authorities to evacuate the area and conduct emergency operations.
Many local islands, including Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios, have also been affected, with classrooms closed and removal protocols in place for people. People are being urged to maintain health and follow safety precautions to reduce danger.
The disasters, with amplitude up to 4.8, have been continued, with the strongest occurring on Sunday evening between Santorini and the nearby island of Amorgos, measuring 4.6 in scale, as reported by AFP.
People of Santorini are concerned about the frequency and intensity of the earthquakes, despite authorities ‘ claims that they are not related to Santorini’s mountain. Local native Michalis Gerontakis, chairman of the Santorini Philharmonic Orchestra, expressed his concern, noting that while the ensemble performed amid the tsunamis, the constant shaking made the area uncomfortable. ” You never argue with nature”, Gerontakis remarked, as quoted by AP.
Despite the fear among visitors, professionals such as Efthymios Lekkas, chairman of the Organisation of Antiseismic Planning and Protection, have reassured that while a 5.5 magnitude quake may be possible, a collapse above scale six is never expected.
However, Gerasimos Papadopoulos, a prominent Greek seismologist, cautioned that the current earthquake sequence could indicate the potential for a larger event, especially as the tremors continue to intensify and shift toward the northeast.
Authorities have advised Santorini’s residents and visitors to stay away from large indoor gatherings and steer clear of areas prone to rock slides, such as certain ports and swimming pools, in response to the ongoing seismic threat.
Emergency teams, including firefighters and rescue personnel, have been dispatched to assist, with temporary shelters set up for displaced families.
Some locals opted to go to bed outdoors or leave the island by ferry and plane in response to the tremors.
Santorini, a major tourist destination known for its stunning views and whitewashed villages, draws millions of visitors each year.
With 3.4 million tourists in 2023 alone, concerns about over-tourism have resurfaced, especially given the island’s limited capacity to handle large-scale evacuations in the event of a disaster.
