Recent seismic activity in the Cyclades has raised concerns among residents of Santorini, where over 550 earthquakes have been recorded in the sea area between Santorini, Amorgos, and Ios in the past three days. The quakes, with magnitudes exceeding 3.0, peaked at 4.9.
In the last 12 hours alone, more than 50 tremors above 3.0 have been detected, including two significant quakes measuring 4.8 and 4.7.
As a result, many residents have vacated their homes, leading to a mass exodus from the island. Schools are closed until Friday, prompting families to seek refuge elsewhere until the seismic activity subsides.
Official reports indicate that approximately 9,000 individuals have left Santorini in various directions. The demand for tickets surged, with prices skyrocketing to 240 euros for flights, causing distress among those needing to evacuate.
While many residents chose to leave, others remained, continuing their daily routines and adhering to safety guidelines. Local businesses, including restaurants, remain operational as the community monitors the situation.
According to Athanasios Ganas, director of research at the Geodynamic Institute, the seismic activity appears to be concentrated around the islet of Anydros, suggesting a swarm of earthquakes that reduces the likelihood of a tsunami or landslides.
Ganas reported that over 41 quakes measuring above 4.5 have occurred in just 72 hours, noting that this level of geological activity is unprecedented in Greece. He expressed concerns about a potential larger quake, warning that a significant rupture nearby could trigger a 6.0 magnitude earthquake, with possible tsunami and landslide effects in the Santorini caldera.
A multi-agency meeting involving emergency services was convened to address the ongoing situation, with additional emergency measures being implemented by the municipality of Thira to ensure public safety.