Turkish Agency Cautions on Volcanic Activity Risk from Aegean Earthquakes

Türkiye’s AFAD and MTA report indicates that over 900 earthquakes near Santorini may trigger volcanic activity. The region’s geological context, including the Kolumbo volcano, raises concerns about potential tsunamis impacting Türkiye, linked to the active seismic environment. Monitoring is advised as past seismic activity did not result in eruptions despite similar intensification. Public caution against speculative information is emphasized.

A recent report by Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Mineral Research and Exploration General Directorate (MTA) indicates that earthquakes in the Aegean Sea may lead to volcanic activity. This assessment follows an uptick in seismic events around Santorini Island, with over 900 earthquakes recorded since January 28, peaking at a magnitude of 5.1. The quakes are primarily occurring northeast of the island, with depths ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers.

The report highlights that the seismic activity is situated near the Kolumbo volcano, located approximately 6.5 kilometers northeast of Santorini. Significant concerns have been raised regarding potential tsunami effects on Türkiye’s coast, as the volcano remains active, last erupting in 1950, which resulted in a tsunami impacting Turkish shores. It emphasizes the possibility of volcanic eruptions resulting from tectonic and seismic shifts attributed to a nearby magma chamber.

AFAD cautions that the current earthquake swarms should be closely monitored due to their potential link to volcanic activity. Yet, it is noted that a similar increase in seismic activity was observed from 2011 to 2012 without leading to eruptions. Should volcanic activity occur, it will depend on various geological factors, including the eruption’s nature and interaction between magma and water.

The South Aegean Volcanic Arc, known for multiple active volcanoes including Milos, Santorini, and Nisyros, has historically seen eruptions over the last 10,000 years. The Aegean Subduction Zone delineates the boundary between the Aegean-Anatolian Plate and the African Plate, with the latter subducting at a rate of 20 millimeters annually. Santorini’s earthquakes are focused shallowly, lacking evidence of deeper seismic activity to date.

AFAD has established a dedicated Earthquake Advisory Board, comprising Turkish scientists and researchers who are closely monitoring the region’s seismicity. The public is urged to rely only on official statements and to refrain from engaging with speculative content circulating on social media regarding the seismic and volcanic activity in this volcanic region.

The Aegean Sea is seismically active, with recurring earthquakes due to tectonic plate movements. This specific area includes numerous volcanoes, notably Santorini and Kolumbo, which have posed risks in the past, such as volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. These natural phenomena are closely monitored due to their potential impact on surrounding regions, particularly Türkiye. The geological setting of the South Aegean Volcanic Arc is crucial for understanding the risks associated with seismic activities, including the interactions between tectonics and volcanism, emphasizing the need for vigilance in monitoring such events.

The assessment by AFAD and MTA underscores the potential risks associated with the ongoing seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, particularly concerning volcanic eruptions surrounding Santorini. While a history of seismic swarms without subsequent eruptions offers some reassurance, continued monitoring is essential to ensure public safety and preparedness for any possible geological events. The authorities stress the importance of relying on official information and maintaining awareness of the potential dangers from both seismic and volcanic activities in the region.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com