The seismic activity over the past two days has caused panic among the residents and tourists on the island of Santorini, prompting many of them to leave.
Greek media report that, due to the fear of ongoing earthquakes, a large number of people have headed to the airport, causing tickets for Aegean and Sky Express airlines to almost sell out. A one-way ticket now costs an average of 200 euros.
In an urgent meeting of authorities to analyze the situation, Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias stated:
“All elements of the seismic activity are being examined. The measures taken so far are preventive, and there will be updated information. I urge citizens to follow the experts’ instructions to manage the situation.”
On Sunday evening, two more earthquakes, measuring 4.7 and 4.5 on the Richter scale, were recorded in the Santorini area, increasing concerns about a stronger tremor. The Geodynamic Institute reported that the epicenter of the larger earthquake was southeast of Arkesini, Amorgos, at a depth of 14.9 km, while the other earthquake occurred in the same area at a depth of 13 km.
Greek authorities have taken immediate measures, advising residents to avoid staying in old buildings and congregating in enclosed spaces. To ensure safe shelter, the Municipality of Santorini has set up tents in open areas for citizens.
Georgios Vougioukalakis, a volcanologist and researcher at the Hellenic Authority of Geological and Mining Research, said the area is experiencing a seismic crisis with over 200 tremors recorded in the last 48 hours. He warned that the epicenter of these earthquakes is mainly located on the uninhabited island of Anhidros, near Santorini, raising concerns about further developments. For this reason, the government has extended safety measures to neighboring islands Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios.
Although the Ministry of Civil Protection has stated that the seismic activity is not related to the volcanic activity in the area, preventive measures are continuing, including the closure of schools on February 3 and restrictions on movement at the tourist ports of Ammoudi and Fira.
Other earthquakes measuring 2.8 and 4.5 hit the area on Sunday morning, but caused no major damage. Greece is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in Europe, and Santorini remains a region with significant seismic history. The island took its current shape after one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in history, around 1600 BC, while the last eruption occurred in 1950.
