Recent seismic activity around Santorini has triggered school closures and public safety warnings from authorities. Tremors of up to 4.6 magnitude have rattled the popular tourist destination, prompting a response from Greek officials aimed at ensuring civilian safety.
Tremors Prompt Caution on Santorini: Schools Closed, Tourists Advised to Stay Alert
Tremors Prompt Caution on Santorini: Schools Closed, Tourists Advised to Stay Alert
Authorities on Santorini have closed schools and advised against gatherings due to recent seismic activity. Seismologists assure the activity is minor but urge precaution.
In the wake of heightened seismic activity, Santorini's schools have been instructed to close on Monday. The precautionary measure comes alongside warnings for residents and visitors against large gatherings, particularly in enclosed spaces. The island, celebrated for its stunning architecture and tourism appeal, has experienced tremors measuring up to 4.6 in magnitude over recent days, with nearby seismic shocks recorded at 4.3 and 3.9 on Sunday.
Santorini is part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a region associated with plate tectonics, although the last significant eruption occurred in the 1950s. Authorities assert that the recent earthquakes are tied to tectonic movements rather than volcanic activity, stating that conditions within the Santorini caldera are currently stable.
While these tremors are considered minor, safety measures have been put in place, including restricting ships from entering the ports of Ammoudi and Fira, which are popular docking areas for large cruise vessels. School closures have also been extended to the nearby islands of Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos. Residents are advised to steer clear of any abandoned buildings and to exercise caution on routes prone to landslides.
Experts, including Kostas Papazachos from Thessaloniki Aristotle University, acknowledge the low likelihood of a major eruption but emphasize the need for caution due to the intensity of recent seismic activity. They warn that in the event of an earthquake while large crowds are present, chaos could ensue, leading to potential injuries.
To enhance preparedness, the South Aegean Regional Fire Department has been placed on high alert, while rescue teams and leadership have been deployed to the island. With a permanent population nearing 15,500 and millions of tourists visiting yearly, the UK Foreign Office has updated travel advice, reiterating the relevance of the new safety protocols.
Santorini's volcanic history stretches back centuries, marked by catastrophic eruptions, including the notable 1600 BC eruption that shaped the island's crescent form and the devastating event in 1956 that resulted in numerous fatalities.
