Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed the ongoing seismic activity affecting Santorini during EU discussions in Brussels, emphasizing the need for a thorough assessment of the geological situation. He described the phenomenon as "very intense" and requested authorities to present comprehensive geological data to the public, ensuring clarity about the scale of the seismic events.
The remarks came as residents of Santorini chose to spend Sunday night outdoors due to concerns over potential damage to buildings caused by the quakes. Reports indicate that many locals have evacuated the island via sea or air as tremors continue to be felt.
Santorini, part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, is known for its volcanic activity, although the last significant eruption occurred in the 1950s. Greek authorities have clarified that the recent minor earthquakes are linked to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic activity, noting that the volcanic activity within the Santorini caldera is currently in decline.
Geologists classify the tremors as minor or light, but precautionary measures have been recommended. In addition to school closures on Santorini and nearby islands such as Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos, authorities have advised ships to steer clear of the ports of Ammoudi and Fira, which are popular docking points for cruise ships.
An emergency meeting chaired by Mitsotakis at Maximos Palace included key figures such as Efthimios Lekkas, head of Greece’s earthquake planning organization, and Minister of Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias. Following the meeting, Kikilias urged residents of the affected islands to heed official instructions and avoid abandoned buildings or routes susceptible to landslides.
While experts believe that the recent tremors are unlikely to signal an impending volcanic eruption, they cannot dismiss the possibility of a stronger seismic event. Kostas Papazachos, a geophysics professor at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, highlighted the importance of the precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of any potential stronger earthquakes. He warned that a minor quake during a crowded event could incite panic, leading to injuries.
In response to the situation, the South Aegean Regional Fire Department has been placed on high alert, with rescue teams dispatched to Santorini. The island, home to approximately 15,500 residents, attracts millions of tourists each year. The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for British visitors, urging them to follow local officials’ guidance amid the ongoing seismic activity.