As seismic tremors escalate around the picturesque Greek island of Santorini, an alarming exodus is occurring, with approximately 9,000 residents having evacuated since Sunday. This surge in departures comes as experts warn that the earthquakes may persist for several weeks.
The Old Port of Fira, a well-known tourist hub, is now largely deserted, with many residents opting to leave, given that February typically marks a lull in tourist activity. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged calm amidst the turmoil, despite ongoing seismic unrest. Just hours ago, a significant earthquake registering at magnitude 5 struck the Aegean Sea northeast of the island, contributing further to the unease felt by locals.
Reports indicate that numerous families are choosing to sleep in their cars for fear that their homes may not withstand the ongoing tremors. Latest accounts confirm that while no substantial damage has been reported thus far, precautionary emergency measures are being enacted.
Emergency flights by Aegean Airlines have been arranged, with additional ferries being activated to transport evacuees to the mainland. The governor of the South Aegean has issued alerts for significant landslide risks, advising residents to evacuate certain areas, including the popular Old Port of Fira and others highly impacted by the tremors. Local schools are currently closed as a precaution.
Kostas Sakavaras, a local tour guide, expressed that his family decided to leave Santorini as they considered it the safest option. He shared, "We heard everything moving, that was the scariest part."
Officials anticipate that the seismic disturbances, deemed minor at present, may still evolve into a more dangerous scenario, prompting the government to strategize for potential shelters and food supplies for those still remaining on the island.
Seismologists are closely monitoring the region, particularly focusing on an area around the small islet of Anydros, identified as the epicenter of these seismic occurrences. Given Santorini's location along the Hellenic Volcanic Arc—a region characterized by its volcanic activity—scientists continue to analyze the tectonic movements responsible for these quakes while reassuring the public that this is not related to volcanic eruptions. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and resilience of Santorini's buildings, officials emphasize the importance of preparedness as uncertainties loom over future tremors.
The Old Port of Fira, a well-known tourist hub, is now largely deserted, with many residents opting to leave, given that February typically marks a lull in tourist activity. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged calm amidst the turmoil, despite ongoing seismic unrest. Just hours ago, a significant earthquake registering at magnitude 5 struck the Aegean Sea northeast of the island, contributing further to the unease felt by locals.
Reports indicate that numerous families are choosing to sleep in their cars for fear that their homes may not withstand the ongoing tremors. Latest accounts confirm that while no substantial damage has been reported thus far, precautionary emergency measures are being enacted.
Emergency flights by Aegean Airlines have been arranged, with additional ferries being activated to transport evacuees to the mainland. The governor of the South Aegean has issued alerts for significant landslide risks, advising residents to evacuate certain areas, including the popular Old Port of Fira and others highly impacted by the tremors. Local schools are currently closed as a precaution.
Kostas Sakavaras, a local tour guide, expressed that his family decided to leave Santorini as they considered it the safest option. He shared, "We heard everything moving, that was the scariest part."
Officials anticipate that the seismic disturbances, deemed minor at present, may still evolve into a more dangerous scenario, prompting the government to strategize for potential shelters and food supplies for those still remaining on the island.
Seismologists are closely monitoring the region, particularly focusing on an area around the small islet of Anydros, identified as the epicenter of these seismic occurrences. Given Santorini's location along the Hellenic Volcanic Arc—a region characterized by its volcanic activity—scientists continue to analyze the tectonic movements responsible for these quakes while reassuring the public that this is not related to volcanic eruptions. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and resilience of Santorini's buildings, officials emphasize the importance of preparedness as uncertainties loom over future tremors.
