Seismic Surge Shakes Santorini: Over 200 Quakes Recorded, Authorities on High Alert

A surge in seismic activity has rattled the Aegean Sea, particularly affecting the picturesque Greek island of Santorini and its neighboring region. Over the weekend, more than 200 earthquakes were recorded, with the most significant quake registering a magnitude of 4.7 on the Richter scale on Sunday night. This uptick in tremors, which began on January 24, has raised concerns among residents and tourists alike, prompting authorities to ramp up monitoring and implement precautionary measures. Despite being situated in a seismically active zone due to its volcanic past, Santorini continues to attract millions of visitors each year, making it one of Greece's most sought-after tourist destinations. However, the recent seismic activity has led Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to convene an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. Minister for Civil Protection, Vasilis Kikilias, reassured the public that while vigilance is heightened, the measures being undertaken are purely preventative. "We are closely monitoring all data, and all actions taken so far are preventive. Citizens should remain calm and follow official guidance," he stated. Geological experts have worked to clarify the nature of the tremors, indicating that they are not directly related to volcanic activity in Santorini's caldera or the nearby Kolumbo volcano. Efthymios Lekkas, president of Greece's Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP), noted that the current seismic events appear to be linked to the Amorgos fault. While he acknowledged the possibility of a stronger earthquake, ranging between 5.0 and 6.0 on the Richter scale, he reassured that a catastrophic quake is not anticipated. As a result of the tremors, landslides have occurred in five locations across Santorini, including the Old Port, Ammoudi, and Armeni. Damage was reported at the Old Port, where a rockfall affected a shelter near the island's famous cable car station. Experts are currently evaluating the stability of rock formations in these areas and are expected to recommend safety measures soon. Initial preventive actions will commence within a month, with further long-term interventions planned ahead of the peak tourist season. In response to the ongoing seismic concerns, scientific committees reconvened on Sunday evening to reassess risks, while another emergency meeting was scheduled at the prime minister's office. Additionally, the government has bolstered emergency response capabilities in the region. Aerial rescue teams, search and rescue units from the Hellenic Fire Department, and specialists equipped with drones have been deployed to Santorini. Temporary shelters have also been established as a precautionary measure. Schools across Santorini, Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos will remain closed on Monday, February 3, in light of the situation. The Greek National Emergency Medical Service (EKAB) has increased personnel and medical resources in the area, dispatching additional ambulances and specialized medical teams to ensure community safety. Santorini's mayor, Anastasios Zorzos, has sought to reassure both locals and visitors, confirming that the recent tremors do not signify an impending major seismic event. "The tremors recorded are no stronger than 4.5 on the Richter scale. Scientists do not foresee a significantly larger earthquake," he explained. He emphasized the importance of emergency response planning, which had been established prior to this recent surge in seismic activity, and urged against panic and misinformation, calling on the public to rely on official sources for updates. As the situation develops, authorities continue to monitor the seismic activity closely, aiming to keep the community informed and safe amidst these geological uncertainties.