A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3 has struck Santorini, a renowned Greek island, amidst ongoing seismic activity in the region. The tremors were strong enough to be felt in Athens on Monday evening, with a focal depth of 17km (10.6 miles).
Neighboring island Amorgos remains on high alert following this latest quake, which came after a moderate 5.0 magnitude earthquake between the islands the previous evening. Since January, Santorini has experienced a series of tremors, totaling more than 12,800 detected quakes according to the University of Athens’ Seismological Laboratory.
Concerns have been raised as landslides have occurred in various parts of Santorini due to the frequent and intense tremors, prompting some residents to patrol hazardous areas to prevent tourists from taking photos on cliffs. While seismologists had initially hoped the intensity of the quakes would decrease, there are now worries that the situation may be escalating.
As a precaution, a state of emergency will remain in effect on Santorini until at least 3 March. Despite the numerous earthquakes, no injuries have been reported, with over 11,000 individuals having evacuated the islands. Both Santorini and Amorgos have undergone inspections revealing no structural damage.
Meanwhile, a team from the Special Disaster Response Unit has been dispatched to Amorgos to assess the situation and provide assistance. Schools in Santorini, Amorgos, and other affected islands will be closed on Monday and Tuesday as a safety measure.
Reflecting on the ongoing seismic activity, Kostas Papazachos, a seismology professor, emphasized the need for patience and vigilance in monitoring the situation. The potential for a major earthquake has not been entirely ruled out, adding to the uncertainty faced by residents and authorities.
Although Greece is prone to earthquakes, the current clusters of seismic activity have puzzled scientists, who have not linked them to any major volcanic events. Santorini, situated on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, has not experienced a significant eruption since the 1950s. Greek authorities attribute the recent tremors to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic activity.
Given the unpredictability of earthquakes, the situation remains dynamic with no definitive forecasts on timing, size, or location. The region continues to grapple with the aftermath of these natural phenomena, as efforts are made to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike.
(Additional reporting by Ruth Comerford)
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