Santorini, a renowned Greek island, has been experiencing a significant surge in seismic activity since February 1, 2025. Over 200 undersea tremors have been recorded between Santorini and Amorgos, with magnitudes reaching up to 4.9 on the Richter scale. This escalation has prompted both residents and tourists to evacuate the island.
In response to the situation, Greek authorities have implemented several precautionary measures:
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School Closures: Educational institutions on Santorini and neighboring islands have been shut down until further notice.
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Deployment of Emergency Teams: Rescue teams equipped with specialized personnel and resources have been dispatched to the affected areas to assist with potential emergencies.
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Transportation Adjustments: To facilitate evacuations, airlines such as Aegean Airlines and ferry operators have increased the frequency of departures from Santorini to Athens.
The U.S. Embassy in Greece has issued guidelines advising individuals to avoid large indoor gatherings, steer clear of old or abandoned buildings, and be cautious around certain ports due to potential landslide risks. They also recommend that people near coastal areas move inland immediately in the event of a strong tremor to mitigate tsunami risks.
Seismologists have indicated that the current seismic activity is tectonic in nature and not linked to volcanic activity. However, the frequency and intensity of the tremors have led to concerns about the possibility of a more powerful earthquake occurring in the near future.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to remain calm while adhering to safety protocols.