Greece’s authorities have announced a state of emergency in Santorini as the resort island has experienced a series of underwater earthquakes over the past week. This decision was made public on Thursday following a significant tremor that registered a magnitude of 5.2 late Wednesday night, marking the strongest quake since the seismic activity began on January 31. The declaration will enable local authorities to access national resources more swiftly to help manage the situation.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis reported that multiple emergency services have been mobilized to provide support to Santorini and its neighboring islands. “Fire departments, police, coast guard, armed forces, and emergency medical services have been dispatched to reinforce the area with extra personnel and specialized equipment,” he stated in a press briefing.
While the earthquake activity has not resulted in major destruction, it has instigated the departure of thousands of residents and seasonal workers, most of whom are choosing to evacuate to the mainland via ferries. Seismologists have indicated that this recent seismic activity is not linked to volcanic events in the nearby Aegean Sea; however, they remain cautious about predicting whether these small quakes could escalate into a larger one.
Vassilis K. Karastathis, a seismologist and research director at the National Observatory of Athens, noted, “Currently, we cannot determine if the seismic activity is beginning to lessen. We are still in an uncertain phase, with no signs indicating a decrease or resolution of the events.”
The earthquakes seem to be centered in a cluster around the islands of Santorini, Anafi, Amorgos, and Ios. Due to their underwater origin, experts believe this may help minimize the damage typically associated with land-based seismic events. In response to the ongoing tremors, local authorities in Santorini have taken precautions by restricting access to certain vulnerable areas atop the island’s iconic cliffs, which could be at risk for rock slides. Additionally, teams of engineers have inspected school buildings that have been closed throughout the week as a safety measure.
The island’s Orthodox church has called upon residents to support one another during this challenging time, highlighting the importance of community. “Living on an island fosters a communal spirit that teaches us to support one another in both joyous and difficult times,” expressed Metropolitan Bishop Amphilochios of Thira, Amorgos, and Isles in an online message. He encouraged the community to face this period together, expressing hope for progress and resilience that would benefit all inhabitants of their cherished islands.
