Greece has declared a state of emergency over Santorini after near-constant tremors since January 27, 2025. The island experienced its strongest earthquake on Wednesday, with a magnitude 5.2 quake striking in the evening. Two larger tremors followed, each exceeding a magnitude of 4.0.
The Greek island is situated along the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, which extends from southern Greece through the Cyclades islands. It’s also home to two volcanoes: Nea Kameni and Kolumbo. The most powerful earthquake recorded since January 27 has produced over 1,000 individual events, with epicenters concentrated between Santorini and nearby islands.
While authorities are making preparations for a larger quake, they have not seen any sign of the tremors easing. Seismologists warn that land-based earthquakes generally cause greater destruction, but underwater earthquakes like those affecting Santorini are less destructive. The quakes have not caused injuries or major damage, but over 11,000 people have departed from Santorini.
Experts consider an eruption unlikely, as the current earthquakes are unrelated to volcanic activity. However, scientists emphasize that the situation is dynamic and cannot be ruled out entirely. A state of emergency has been declared until March 3, allowing authorities to respond to the population’s needs and the consequences of seismic activity.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/7/as-greece-declares-emergency-over-santorini-earthquakes-whats-next