A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 5.2 has struck the Greek island of Santorini, following days of consecutive tremors in the area. The quake was recorded at 21:09 local time and is estimated to have occurred at a depth of 5km.
Over 11,000 people have left Santorini, with around 7,000 departing by ferry and 4,000 leaving by air. Authorities are taking precautionary measures despite major damage not being reported on the island yet.
The quake follows two smaller tremors minutes earlier, and is believed to be related to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic activity. Schools in Santorini and other nearby islands will remain closed until Friday, when authorities will decide on reopening.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has assured the public that “forces have been moved to Santorini and the other islands” to prepare for any eventuality. The coast guard and armed forces are available to assist vulnerable people who wish to evacuate.
Santorini is located in the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a chain of islands created by volcanoes. However, the last major eruption occurred in the 1950s. Scientists stress that earthquakes cannot be predicted with certainty, but areas prone to earthquake activity help governments prepare.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8jlm6rm9qo