ATHENS, Greece (AP) — A series of seismic tremors in close proximity to Santorini island is gradually waning a month after its onset, as confirmed by Greek scientists who are diligently monitoring this unfolding phenomenon. The undersea tremors, at times occurring just minutes apart, prompted a mass exodus of thousands of residents and workers from the renowned clifftop settlements of Santorini, as well as the neighboring islands of Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi. Schools on these islands have remained shuttered for a fourth consecutive week, with various other restrictions still enforced. Nonetheless, scientists expressed optimism over the diminishing frequency of the seismic activity. “The seismic events are showing a steady decrease, both in terms of the daily count of recorded tremors and the maximum magnitudes,” announced the Interdisciplinary Committee for Risk and Crisis Management at the University of Athens. “The activity remains focused in the same epicentral region, with no fresh micro-seismic swells reported since February 15,” the committee added. Over the period spanning from January 26 to February 22, the committee registered upwards of 20,000 earthquakes measuring magnitude 1 or above. These numerous earthquakes, attributed to natural tectonic processes and subterranean magma movements, have reached magnitudes as high as 5.3, yet have resulted in only minor damages. Santorini’s Mayor, Nikos Zorzos, disclosed on Monday that several thousand individuals had returned to the island since late last week. He urged government authorities to provide further support in addressing the associated risks, including the mitigation of rockfalls and the installation and repair of hillslope fencing.
