In response to a series of over 300 recorded earthquakes in just 48 hours, approximately 6,000 people have left the Greek island of Santorini by ferry, with emergency flight arrangements underway. As the tremors, some reaching magnitudes of 4.7, continue, local authorities are implementing precautionary measures, including school closures and public gatherings advisories. This situation has led many locals, who are currently the majority evacuees due to the off-peak tourist season, to seek safety on the mainland, although government officials maintain a calm stance amidst fears of potential larger seismic events.
Santorini Evacuations Intensify Amid Surge in Earthquake Activity
Santorini Evacuations Intensify Amid Surge in Earthquake Activity
Thousands of residents and tourists are evacuating Santorini as seismic activity raises concerns for safety.
Residents of Santorini are facing unprecedented circumstances as they evacuate amidst an unusual surge in seismic activity on the island. With over 300 earthquakes registered in a mere two days, approximately 6,000 locals and tourists have already departed via ferry, and emergency flights have been instituted for further evacuations. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged a sense of calm while assured measures are being put in place to handle what experts describe as a temporary upheaval linked to tectonic shifts rather than volcanic activity.
The Old Port of Fira, a central location of tourism and local life, has become a focal point for evacuations as residents heed warnings from authorities. Educational institutions have been closed for the week, and residents are being advised to vacate high-risk areas and avoid large indoor gatherings. Kostas Sakavaras, a tourism guide living on the island, voiced his concerns about the tremors, although he noted that physical damage was minimal. “It's really the sound that is so unnerving,” he remarked after relocating his family to the mainland temporarily.
In the face of the unfolding situation, Greek authorities are closely monitoring seismic activities, with local emergency services placed on heightened alert to deal with potential landslides and the risks posed by ongoing tremors. While calm has prevailed so far, both residents and officials remain vigilant, preparing for the prospect of continued seismic disturbances in the days ahead.
The Old Port of Fira, a central location of tourism and local life, has become a focal point for evacuations as residents heed warnings from authorities. Educational institutions have been closed for the week, and residents are being advised to vacate high-risk areas and avoid large indoor gatherings. Kostas Sakavaras, a tourism guide living on the island, voiced his concerns about the tremors, although he noted that physical damage was minimal. “It's really the sound that is so unnerving,” he remarked after relocating his family to the mainland temporarily.
In the face of the unfolding situation, Greek authorities are closely monitoring seismic activities, with local emergency services placed on heightened alert to deal with potential landslides and the risks posed by ongoing tremors. While calm has prevailed so far, both residents and officials remain vigilant, preparing for the prospect of continued seismic disturbances in the days ahead.
