Turkey Warns of Potential Volcanic Activity Due to Earthquakes in the Aegean Sea

Türkiye’s AFAD and MTA have issued a report indicating that recent seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, especially around Santorini, might lead to volcanic eruptions. Since January 28, over 900 earthquakes have been recorded, with the largest measuring 5.1. The report emphasizes the necessity for ongoing monitoring due to the potential hazards associated with volcanic activity.

The Türkiye Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Mineral Research and Exploration General Directorate (MTA) have reported that the ongoing seismic activity in the Aegean Sea could potentially trigger volcanic activity. This assessment, presented on Wednesday, highlighted an increase in seismic events near Santorini Island, with over 900 quakes recorded since January 28, culminating in the largest tremor measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale.

The earthquakes are primarily located northeast of Santorini Island, with depths ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers, concentrated near the Kolumbo volcano. The report emphasizes that the closest quake to Turkish shores occurred 140 kilometers away. Additionally, the eruption of the Santorini volcano in 1950 resulted in a tsunami that impacted Turkey, underscoring the potential hazards of the current seismic events.

The report noted the Santorini region’s history of volcanic activity, which can be influenced by tectonic and seismic movements centered around a magma chamber. It cautioned that while a similar seismic intensity occurred from 2011 to 2012 without leading to volcanic activity, the situation warrants close monitoring.

Moreover, the ongoing seismic activity is located within the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, which includes various active volcanoes such as Milos and Nisyros. This geological zone is characterized by the Aegean-Anatolian Plate colliding with the African Plate, creating conditions conducive to seismic events. The Santorini earthquakes are shallow, suggesting that the tectonic situation has not yet escalated to deeper seismic activities.

AFAD’s Earthquake Advisory Board is currently monitoring these events closely, urging the public to disregard speculative information circulating on social media and to rely on updates from official institutions. This emphasis on caution aims to prevent panic and misinformation while maintaining public awareness of potential geological risks in the region.

The Aegean Sea, particularly around Santorini, is seismically active due to its position along the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, which hosts numerous active volcanoes. The interplay of tectonic plates, specifically the Aegean-Anatolian and African Plates, contributes to this activity, leading to both earthquakes and potential volcanic eruptions. Understanding this geologic context is crucial as it helps predict responses to current seismic activity, which is both frequent and significant to nearby populated areas.

The assessment by AFAD and MTA highlights the serious implications of the recent surge in seismic activity near Santorini, warning of potential volcanic consequences. With a history of volcanic eruptions and tsunamis in the region, the monitoring of these seismic events becomes critical. The authorities stress the importance of relying on official communications rather than unverified social media speculations to ensure public safety.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com