Intensified Seismic Activity in Santorini: Over 7,700 Earthquakes Recorded Since January

Santorini has experienced heightened seismic activity since January 26, recording over 7,700 earthquakes, including a recent 5.0 magnitude tremor. Local residents are anxious, taking precautions amidst concerns of a potential larger earthquake. Experts continue to monitor the situation closely, analyzing the causes and implications of these tremors, which have led to widespread evacuations in the area.

Seismic activity around Santorini, a Greek island, intensified as of February 9, marked by a 5.0 magnitude earthquake near Amorgos, which raised concerns regarding the likelihood of a larger seismic event. Following a previous 5.2 magnitude earthquake on February 5, local residents and experts expressed apprehension over the ongoing tremors.

Vasilis Karastathis, Director of the Geodynamic Institute, expressed cautious optimism regarding the latest seismic developments. “Since the day before yesterday, a better rhythm has started, a slower rhythm in the earthquakes. This has been maintained,” he stated, while still acknowledging the potential for a larger earthquake.

The significant seismic activity has caused anxiety among the local populace. Residents in Santorini and surrounding islands, such as Amorgos, have prepared for emergencies, often keeping bags in their vehicles during the night. Consequently, thousands of locals and tourists evacuated the island in recent weeks, reducing concerns about safety.

Panagiotis Karydis, a Professor specializing in Anti-Seismic Constructions, underscored the significance of the earthquake’s epicenter in assessing potential damage. He stated, “An earthquake from the northeastern side of Santorini, at 6 Richter, in my opinion, will create much smaller problems than one at 4.5-5 Richter from the area of the Caldera.”

Experts remain vigilant, installing additional seismographs to gain a deeper insight into the seismic activity. In conjunction, oceanographic studies are being initiated to uncover the underlying factors contributing to the continuous tremors.

The swarm of seismic activity commenced on January 26, with over 7,700 earthquakes documented in the Santorini-Amorgos region. Nearly 6,000 of these earthquakes were recorded in the maritime vicinity of Santorini and neighboring islands, as reported by Kathimerini.

Seismologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos remarked on the situation’s severity, noting, “We have reached the critical point. We have the first case, if the 5.2 Richter was the main one,” indicating that further analysis is necessary to ascertain whether the tremors are subsiding.

Concerns regarding the seismic activity in Santorini extend beyond Greece, prompting the Israeli National Security Council to convene and prepare for a potential tsunami. Deputy Head officials are evaluating the threats posed by the seismic events in Greece alongside relevant government agencies.

Dr. Efraim Laor stated that the risk of a tsunami wave reaching Israel from Greece remains low. He remarked, “In any case, if an earthquake of more than 6.5 degrees occurs on the island, then there will definitely be a tsunami, but it is not at all certain that it will reach Israel.”

The geological dynamics of the region are complex, with significant tectonic activity noted between Santorini and Amorgos. Seismologists are aware of the numerous large faults that traverse the Earth’s crust in this area, indicating a history of seismic events.

Historical instances amplify the prevailing concerns; for example, a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in 1956 resulted in substantial destruction in Santorini, Crete, and other regions of the Eastern Mediterranean, including a tsunami reaching heights of nearly 30 meters.

In summary, increased seismic activity around Santorini has resulted in heightened concerns among residents and experts. With thousands of earthquakes recorded since January, including significant tremors in recent weeks, there is caution regarding the possibility of more substantial events. Local and international authorities are monitoring the situation closely to address safety concerns and prepare for any potential seismic impacts.

Original Source: www.jpost.com