Emergency Crews Deployed on Santorini as Earthquake Swarm Raises Concerns
Seismic activity on Santorini leads to school closures and evacuation plans as experts monitor potential risks.
Santorini, Greece – Emergency crews have been deployed on the volcanic island of Santorini after a series of earthquakes raised concerns among residents and experts.
Over 200 undersea tremors have been recorded in the past three days, leading to school closures and precautionary measures on the island and surrounding Aegean Sea areas.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged residents to stay calm as authorities remained vigilant.
Seismic activity, including frequent quakes with magnitudes over 4.5, has continued throughout the weekend and into Monday.
While Greek experts confirm that these quakes are not related to the island's volcano, they acknowledge growing concern due to the rising number of tremors.
Authorities have warned of potential rockslides and have closed access to certain seaside areas.
Local officials, including Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias, stressed that the measures were precautionary.
In response to the tremors, emergency teams have set up temporary shelters, and residents have been advised to avoid large gatherings and areas at risk of rockfalls.
Santorini, known for its dramatic volcanic history, attracts over 3 million visitors annually.
The island's volcano last erupted in 1950, and while experts continue to monitor the situation, officials have emphasized that the current seismic activity may not lead to an immediate volcanic eruption.
Local authorities have designated gathering points in case of evacuation, and while Mayor Nikos Zorzos confirmed preparedness efforts, he urged calm, noting that the situation could escalate or remain contained.
The island’s residents and tourists have been advised to follow safety recommendations as the situation continues to develop.