Santorini Experiences Persistent Earthquakes, Prompting Evacuations and Safety Measures

Santorini, Greece, has been shaken by persistent earthquakes since late January, leading to the evacuation of over 13,000 residents from its population of 15,500. With hundreds of tremors recorded and further seismic activity anticipated, the island faces significant uncertainty as experts monitor the situation closely. Authorities have implemented precautions and support measures amidst concerns over safety and psychological distress among the remaining inhabitants.

The Greek island of Santorini has experienced a series of persistent earthquakes, leading to widespread concern among its residents. Since the end of January, over 13,000 of the island’s 15,500 inhabitants have evacuated, creating an unsettling atmosphere marked by an unusual decline in activity, particularly during what is typically a slow tourist season. A few tourists remain, predominantly from Asia, amidst the quiet streets.

The tremors began escalating on January 25 and peaked with a magnitude-5.2 earthquake just northeast of Santorini. While most tremors have been small, data indicates a significant increase in seismic activity, with 160 tremors recorded above magnitude 4 in early February alone, compared to just 90 for the entirety of the previous year. This uptick has left scientists cautious, as predictions regarding future seismic activity are unreliable.

Vassilis Karastathis, the director of the Institute of Geodynamics, stated, “There are signs of stabilization, but we need to see a further drop in the frequency of the tremors to be sure.” He highlighted that despite the release of substantial seismic energy, a large earthquake cannot be entirely ruled out.

In response to the ongoing seismic activity, authorities have closed schools and restricted large indoor gatherings. Emergency workers have been mobilized, and landing craft are prepared for potential evacuations. Certain regions of the island have been designated as off-limits due to fears of landslides, and preventative measures, such as sandbags near coastal homes, have been implemented. Additionally, mental health support is being provided to anxious residents, further indicating the seriousness of the situation.

As the island copes with this geological upheaval, the immediate future of Santorini remains uncertain. The combined efforts of both local authorities and mental health professionals aim to reassure the remaining residents and visitors, hoping for a gradual return to calm on this famous tourist destination.

The ongoing seismic activity in Santorini has led to mass evacuations, with a significant portion of its population leaving the island due to safety concerns. With a marked increase in earthquake frequency and reactions from local authorities, the situation remains critical. While experts suggest possible stabilization, the potential for further significant earthquakes continues to loom, leaving the outlook for the island uncertain as it grapples with these challenges.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com