A fourth consecutive day of earthquakes has struck the Greek island of Santorini, prompting thousands to evacuate. Over 11,000 residents have left the island, with most departing by ferry or air. The strongest tremor recorded was a magnitude five quake on Tuesday.
While major damage has not been reported, authorities are taking precautions, including closing schools and warning against large indoor gatherings. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged calm, as officials warn of a possible magnitude six or greater quake.
The head of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, Efthymis Lekkas, has stated that the seismic activity is unusual for Greek standards, with increased frequency and magnitude. The Director of the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, Vasilis Karastathis, has warned that “things are developing in a way that concerns us” and that people cannot be reassured.
The evacuees include locals, workers, and tourists, as the island is currently in low season. Tourist guide Kostas Sakavaras, who fled with his family, said they decided to leave due to precautionary measures. Authorities have asked residents to avoid abandoned buildings, choose safe routes, and empty swimming pools.
Santorini is located on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a chain of islands created by volcanoes. However, officials believe the recent tremors are related to tectonic plate movements, not volcanic activity. Scientists cannot predict when or where earthquakes will occur but are taking steps to prepare for such events.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjde94dnj08o