In the last 48 hours, approximately 9,000 residents have left Santorini, Greece, amid a series of over 300 recorded earthquakes. With fears of continued tremors, emergency measures are being implemented to ensure residents’ safety.
Thousands Evacuate Santorini Due to Swarm of Earthquakes
Thousands Evacuate Santorini Due to Swarm of Earthquakes
Greek officials issue evacuation warnings as seismic activity rattles the popular island.
Residents and tourists continue to evacuate as Santorini grapples with a significant uptick in earthquake activity. Since Sunday, the picturesque island has seen alarming levels of seismic unrest, prompting local authorities to advise evacuations, particularly in the Old Port of Fira—a hotspot for visitors. As tremors persist, local media indicates that about 9,000 individuals have left the island, primarily locals, as tourism remains low in the offseason.
Authorities confirmed that an array of earthquakes, including a notable 5.0-magnitude quake, have struck near Santorini, raising anxiety about potential larger seismic events in the coming days. Though no significant damage has been reported, officials remain vigilant, advising residents to stay clear of certain areas known for landslides and to evacuate structures, especially as school closures take effect.
Queues formed early at the local ferry port, where families and individuals sought passage to the mainland. Local resident Kostas Sakavaras shared, “It’s a better choice to come to the mainland as a precaution,” referencing the unsettling nature of the incessant tremors. While many in the community exhibit caution, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged for calm, emphasizing that the geological phenomenon is being managed as best as possible.
Experts closely monitor the seismic activity, observing the origins near the tiny islet of Anydros to the northeast of Santorini. Scientists have assured the public that these disturbances are attributed to tectonic plate shifts rather than volcanic behavior, with historical records indicating that the last significant eruption occurred in the 1950s.
As the island remains positioned on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, further assessments and emergency meetings among government and military officials are scheduled to enhance response efforts. Geologists have emphasized the necessity of preparing for potential larger earthquakes while ensuring the community is equipped with adequate safety protocols. With the situation still evolving, residents are urged to remain vigilant for ongoing updates.
Authorities confirmed that an array of earthquakes, including a notable 5.0-magnitude quake, have struck near Santorini, raising anxiety about potential larger seismic events in the coming days. Though no significant damage has been reported, officials remain vigilant, advising residents to stay clear of certain areas known for landslides and to evacuate structures, especially as school closures take effect.
Queues formed early at the local ferry port, where families and individuals sought passage to the mainland. Local resident Kostas Sakavaras shared, “It’s a better choice to come to the mainland as a precaution,” referencing the unsettling nature of the incessant tremors. While many in the community exhibit caution, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged for calm, emphasizing that the geological phenomenon is being managed as best as possible.
Experts closely monitor the seismic activity, observing the origins near the tiny islet of Anydros to the northeast of Santorini. Scientists have assured the public that these disturbances are attributed to tectonic plate shifts rather than volcanic behavior, with historical records indicating that the last significant eruption occurred in the 1950s.
As the island remains positioned on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, further assessments and emergency meetings among government and military officials are scheduled to enhance response efforts. Geologists have emphasized the necessity of preparing for potential larger earthquakes while ensuring the community is equipped with adequate safety protocols. With the situation still evolving, residents are urged to remain vigilant for ongoing updates.
