Recent seismic activity, including a significant quake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale, has prompted a mass evacuation and emergency measures to protect residents and visitors from potential hazards.
State of Emergency on Santorini Amidst Ongoing Earthquakes
State of Emergency on Santorini Amidst Ongoing Earthquakes
Santorini Island in Greece faces an urgent state of emergency due to a series of earthquakes.
The situation on the idyllic island of Santorini has taken a concerning turn as a state of emergency has been officially declared following multiple earthquakes. The latest and most powerful tremor, registered at a magnitude of 5.2, struck at 21:09 local time (19:09 GMT) on Wednesday and was deemed the most severe of the recent quakes, occurring 5 km deep between the islands of Amorgos and Santorini. This decree will remain effective until March 3 to facilitate immediate responses to the ongoing seismic crisis.
In light of the threatening quakes, over 11,000 individuals have evacuated Santorini, with the majority fleeing by ferry and air due to fears of further tremors. A subsequent quake measuring 4.7 was recorded in the vicinity, raising alarms among residents who have experienced 57 tremors within a short timeframe early Thursday morning. While no major damage has yet been reported, experts caution that the seismic activity is still strong and unpredictable.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to visit the island to assess the situation as local authorities ramp up preparations, including the arrival of additional medical personnel and emergency services. Authorities are also keen to address public concerns regarding a potential tsunami, with makeshift defenses constructed along the coast.
Educational institutions across Santorini and nearby islands will remain closed while officials evaluate the safety of resuming classes. Despite the challenges, Prime Minister Mitsotakis remains optimistic about the readiness of local forces to manage any developing scenarios effectively. He urged residents to remain calm and comply with directives from authorities.
As the island is situated on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, tremors are common, but the recent activity is attributed to tectonic movements rather than volcanic eruptions, alleviating some concerns. Emergency measures are being enacted to ensure the safety of those remaining on the island as many travelers seek refuge and reliable transportation back to the mainland while weather conditions disrupt ferry services.
In light of the threatening quakes, over 11,000 individuals have evacuated Santorini, with the majority fleeing by ferry and air due to fears of further tremors. A subsequent quake measuring 4.7 was recorded in the vicinity, raising alarms among residents who have experienced 57 tremors within a short timeframe early Thursday morning. While no major damage has yet been reported, experts caution that the seismic activity is still strong and unpredictable.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to visit the island to assess the situation as local authorities ramp up preparations, including the arrival of additional medical personnel and emergency services. Authorities are also keen to address public concerns regarding a potential tsunami, with makeshift defenses constructed along the coast.
Educational institutions across Santorini and nearby islands will remain closed while officials evaluate the safety of resuming classes. Despite the challenges, Prime Minister Mitsotakis remains optimistic about the readiness of local forces to manage any developing scenarios effectively. He urged residents to remain calm and comply with directives from authorities.
As the island is situated on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, tremors are common, but the recent activity is attributed to tectonic movements rather than volcanic eruptions, alleviating some concerns. Emergency measures are being enacted to ensure the safety of those remaining on the island as many travelers seek refuge and reliable transportation back to the mainland while weather conditions disrupt ferry services.
