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Seismic Calm Returns to Santorini as Tourists and Residents Reassess Safety

A series of mild earthquakes that led to thousands fleeing Santorini, Greece, appears to have subsided, according to specialists in the field. Residents and visitors are now beginning to return to the island, marking a gradual return to normalcy.

Throughout late January and February, more than 20,000 earthquakes were documented in the waters of the Aegean Sea, particularly between the islands of Santorini and Amorgos. This unprecedented seismic activity raised concerns and led to a significant exodus of both locals and tourists.

However, wine journalist Eleni Kefalopoulou, visiting Santorini in early March, remained unfazed by the warnings circulating in the media. “Despite the panic, the island felt serene. I barely noticed any tremors during my stay,” she remarked in an interview with Travel + Leisure.

In early March, after the declaration of a state of emergency was lifted, local families and seasonal workers began to return to Santorini, which continues to be one of the most frequently visited islands globally. Schools resumed activities, while hotels prepared for the upcoming tourist season starting in April, with restaurateurs revamping menus and shops readying their inventory.

Professor Costas Papazahos, a seismologist, reported to ERT on March 4 that the seismic activity had significantly decreased. “While some minor tremors occurred, the intense series of quakes seems to have ended,” he stated, noting a recent event that registered magnitudes of 3.7 and 3.2. The island’s earthquake monitoring capabilities have also seen enhancements, with 120 seismographs now in operation, and experts will remain on-site for ongoing observations. “This provides us a unique chance to conduct studies that typically wouldn’t be feasible during stable periods,” he explained.

Mayor Nikos Zorzos assured Travel + Leisure that the quakes resulted in no structural damage. He emphasized that measures would be taken to prevent potential landslides, similar to those already in effect across other hilly regions of Greece. “Our primary goal is to ensure a smooth operation for businesses this upcoming tourist season,” he stated.

Hotel operators remain hopeful for a prosperous 2025. George Pitsinelis, the general manager at Magma Resort Santorini, reassured visitors that key attractions and facilities remained unharmed. “We have taken extensive steps to maintain visitor safety, including routine inspections and reinforced safety measures throughout our properties,” he explained, noting their 24-hour WhatsApp contact service to enhance guest communication.

Fun Fact
The dramatic features of Santorini were sculpted by a colossal volcanic eruption around 1600 B.C.E. Today, luxury hotels and restaurants, adorned in soft pastels and earthy colors, line the cliffs of the caldera, which conceals the ancient submerged volcano beneath the deep blue waters of the Aegean.

Some resorts have noticed an unexpected slow-down in bookings. “Santorini is often favored as a last-minute getaway, so these variations are not unusual,” Pitsinelis observed, reaffirming that “the island continues to be a safe and inviting destination.”

For travelers feeling apprehensive about visiting Santorini, it might be prudent to consider travel insurance that offers a cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) option. Christina Tunnah of World Nomads suggests that U.S. travelers stay informed by following reliable local news and contemplate policies that include CFAR benefits. “It’s akin to avoiding California simply because it experiences earthquakes. Minor tremors are a part of life here, and we continue to thrive,” she advised.

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www.travelandleisure.com