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Seismic Activity Triggers Mass Exodus from Santorini
In response to significant seismic activity, thousands of residents are evacuating the Greek island of Santorini. Reports indicate that approximately 6,000 individuals have utilized ferry services to leave the island since Sunday, with emergency flights scheduled to commence on Tuesday to facilitate further departures.
The region has experienced over 300 recorded earthquakes in the past two days, with seismic experts cautioning that the tremors may persist for several weeks. As a precautionary measure, local authorities have closed schools for the week and advised against large gatherings in enclosed spaces, although Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called for calm among the populace.
Known for its stunning whitewashed architecture, Santorini is a popular tourist hotspot, particularly in the warmer months. However, February is typically off-peak for tourism, resulting in the majority of those fleeing being local residents.
This morning, several tremors were detected northeast of the island, with one recorded at a magnitude of 4.7. While no significant damage has been reported thus far, emergency protocols are being enacted in anticipation of potential aftershocks.
Scenes at the port depict a sense of urgency, as hundreds formed long lines early Tuesday to secure tickets for ferries heading to the mainland. An 18-year-old resident shared his feelings of uncertainty, stating, “Everything is closed. No-one works now. The whole island has emptied,” just before boarding.
In addition to the ferry exits, Aegean Airlines reported that around 2,500 to 2,700 passengers have flown from Santorini to Athens in the past two days. The airline has arranged three additional emergency flights, responding to a request from the Greek government to help with the mass evacuation.
With a local population of roughly 15,500, Santorini normally welcomes millions of tourists each year, making the current situation particularly impactful. Kostas Sakavaras, a tour guide and long-time resident, decided to leave with his family, explaining, “We considered it’s a better choice to come to the mainland as a precaution.” He noted that, although nothing substantial had collapsed, the noise accompanying the quakes was alarming and disconcerting. Sakavaras expressed a desire to return once schools reopen, currently projected for Friday.
Authorities have taken further safety measures, advising residents to avoid certain flood-prone areas and to drain their swimming pools. Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized the government’s efforts to handle “a very intense geological phenomenon.” Seismologists characterize the recent activity as minor, yet preparations for a stronger earthquake have been set in place.
Residents are urged to leave areas such as Ammoudi, Armeni, and the Old Port of Fira due to the risk of landslides. The South Aegean Regional Fire Department remains on high alert, with rescue crews stationed and ready to respond as necessary, including watching over large yellow medical tents on the island.
Located on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, Santorini has a geological history shaped by volcanic activity, with the last major eruption recorded in the 1950s. Current analyses by Greek authorities indicate that the recent seismic events are attributed to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic action.
Source
www.bbc.com