ATHENS, Greece — The lead seismologist for the Greek government has indicated that the number of earthquakes shaking Santorini and its neighboring islands has diminished recently. However, he cautioned that the potential for seismic activity in the upcoming weeks remains unpredictable.

“Unfortunately, we need to exercise patience for now. These sequences of seismic events do not resolve quickly and have their own timelines,” stated Costas Papazachos during an interview with state broadcaster ERT.

“Our hope is that this particular sequence will surprise us positively and come to a resolution sooner rather than later,” he added.

A state of emergency has been enacted for Santorini along with the nearby islands of Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi after numerous underwater quakes this month, some occurring just minutes apart. This intense activity prompted many residents and workers to evacuate to the Greek mainland.

Schools across the islands remain shutdown for a third consecutive week. In response to the situation, security services have deployed rescue teams and backup power generators as precautionary measures.

On Monday, the government announced plans to create an emergency port facility on Santorini to prepare for any large-scale evacuation needs.

Papazachos, who teaches geophysics at the University of Thessaloniki, is currently a key figure in two emergency committees comprising scientists, government officials, military personnel, and emergency services representatives.

He reassured the public that while Santorini, known for its volcanic origins, does not face immediate risks from its dormant volcano, the presence of magma is influencing the current seismic activity.