The Aegean islands were rattled by tremors as a magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck on Sunday, setting off what experts are referring to as a prolonged earthquake swarm causing both tourists and locals to flee the affected areas. The United States Geological Survey reported that the earthquake occurred 17 miles (28 kilometers) west-southwest of Amorgos island around 9:05 p.m. local time (2:05 p.m. ET). Following this initial quake, a series of additional earthquakes measuring magnitude 4 or higher were detected off the coast of Fira, the capital of Santorini.
These recent seismic activities are part of an ongoing earthquake swarm that has been under scrutiny by scientists and Greek Civil Protection officials since February 1st, particularly focusing on the region between Santorini and Amorgos. A Seismic Risk Assessment Committee has been convening daily to assess the situation and provide regular updates on the seismic events.
Sunday’s earthquake stands out as the most powerful one since a magnitude 5.3 quake was recorded the previous week. Experts are working diligently to ascertain whether this latest earthquake with a magnitude over 5 is the main event in this sequence of seismic activities.
Thousands of earthquakes ranging between magnitudes 3 and 5 have been rocking the islands, prompting authorities to issue warnings advising residents to avoid large buildings and to empty their swimming pools as a precautionary measure. Schools have been closed for the safety of the students and staff.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his concern over the situation, particularly focusing on Santorini and Amorgos, which are undergoing a complex and intricate geological phenomenon as explained by scientists. With the staggering number of more than 7,700 earthquakes recorded in the area, fear and unease have gripped the communities.
Over the weekend, Mitsotakis visited Santorini, where a mobile operations center has been established to manage the ongoing seismic activities. Reports from Greek state media indicated that over 6,000 residents had been evacuated from Santorini due to the persistent shaking.
Information in this article was obtained using Google Translate. Original article source: Magnitude 5.2 earthquake rocks Greek Aegean islands beginning another week of seismic unrest.
