Greek authorities have declared a state of emergency on the island of Santorini due to intense seismic activity. A 5.2-magnitude earthquake occurred hours after seismologists recorded an estimated 7,700 tremors last week. The measures, which include increased army involvement in crisis management, will be in effect until March 3.
The situation is dire, with over 12,000 people fleeing the island by boat and plane since the tremors intensified at the weekend. Local businesses are shuttered, and narrow streets have been barricaded by police fearing more rock slides. Experts warn that the seismic activity could last weeks or even months.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will visit the island on Friday to show solidarity with the affected residents. Social workers and psychologists have also been dispatched to provide support. However, seismologists are divided on whether Wednesday’s earthquake is a precursor to a more powerful tremor or a sign of diminishing seismic buildup.
The situation remains uncertain, and authorities urge caution. The state of emergency will remain in effect until further notice.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/06/state-of-emergency-declared-on-santorini-after-earthquakes-shake-island