Unprecedented Seismic Activity Hits Santorini, Greece
Mass Exodus of Residents as Quakes Continue
Athens: A fresh series of quakes hit the Greek island of Santorini early on Thursday, part of an unprecedented seismic wave that has baffled scientists and led to a mass exodus of residents.
Seven Successive Tremors Recorded
Seven successive tremors measuring over 4.0 magnitude were recorded in the early morning by the Athens Geodynamic Institute, Greece’s leading authority on earthquake analysis. This was after a 5.2 quake, the strongest so far since the weekend, was recorded on Wednesday evening.
Experts Baffled by Unprecedented Activity
Experts have so far been unable to give a definitive estimate on when the seismic activity will end, but stress that it is unprecedented. "The intensity is falling but has not yet stabilised," the institute’s research director Athanassios Ganas told state TV channel ERT. "We’re at the halfway point," the institute’s deputy director Vassilis Karastathis told the station.
Number of Tremors Surpasses 6,000
The institute on Thursday said over 6,000 tremors had been recorded in the Aegean Sea near the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios since January 26.
Government Responds to Crisis
Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis on Thursday said Greece’s "entire state mechanism has been mobilised" to prepare for "any eventuality." Over 11,000 residents and seasonal workers have left Santorini since the weekend by sea and air, with operators adding extra flights and ferries.
Experts Warn of Possible Rockslides
The head of Greece’s earthquake planning and protection authority, Efthymios Lekkas, warned that there were five areas at risk of possible rockslides on Santorini, including the ports of Fira and Athinios. Rescue teams have been sent to the area as a precaution, and additional seismic sensors have been deployed.
Tourism Industry Impacted
Santorini attracted about 3.4 million visitors in 2023. Upwards of a million of those were cruise ship passengers. European travel agents contacted by AFP said the number of foreign visitors to Santorini at this time of year was minimal, with more bookings expected in the spring months.
Conclusion
The ongoing seismic activity in Santorini has left residents and visitors alike on edge, with many choosing to leave the island until the situation stabilizes. While the exact duration of the activity remains unclear, experts are working tirelessly to monitor the situation and provide updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many tremors have been recorded in the Aegean Sea near Santorini?
A: Over 6,000 tremors have been recorded since January 26.
Q: How many residents and seasonal workers have left Santorini since the weekend?
A: Over 11,000 people have left the island.
Q: Is the current seismic activity linked to volcanic activity?
A: No, an experts’ committee has said that the current tremors are not linked to volcanic activity.
Q: How many visitors does Santorini typically receive in a year?
A: Santorini attracted about 3.4 million visitors in 2023.