A series of over 200 earthquakes near Santorini, Greece, have prompted local authorities to take significant precautions, including closing schools and advising residents to drain swimming pools to prevent potential structural damage in the event of stronger tremors. Despite seismic experts asserting that these quakes are unrelated to the volcanic activity of Santorini, which is known for one of history’s largest eruptions, locals remain anxious.
The most powerful tremor registered a magnitude of 4.6 on Sunday, with no reports of injuries or damage. Given the situation, officials from various agencies, including the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, are convening daily to address the ongoing seismic threat. Residents and visitors have been warned to avoid large public gatherings and to be wary of rockfalls due to the area’s steep cliffs.
Experts are cautious but acknowledge the potential for stronger seismic activity, which could possibly reach a magnitude of 6. Since September, there have also been mild earthquakes recorded within Santorini’s volcanic caldera, but recent activity indicates a decrease in volcanic seismic events.
The famed eruption around 1600 BCE severely impacted the region, with significant geological consequences felt as far as Crete and Egypt. Monitoring efforts have classified the Santorini volcano among the world’s most closely watched due to its dense nearby population and historical eruptions.