An earthquake swarm that has been affecting the Greek island of Santorini is reportedly beginning to decline, according to recent updates from scientists monitoring the region. The seismic activity, which commenced approximately a month ago, has prompted a significant response from both residents and visitors, leading to evacuations from Santorini and nearby islands, including Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi.
As the undersea shocks were recorded frequently—sometimes just minutes apart—they compelled thousands of individuals to leave the popular clifftop towns that typically draw tourists. As a result of the ongoing situation, schools on these islands remain closed for a fourth consecutive week, with several other restrictions still enforced to ensure the safety of residents and workers.
The Interdisciplinary Committee for Risk and Crisis Management at the University of Athens has noted positive signs in the seismic activity. “Seismic activity continues to show a gradual decline, both in terms of the daily number of recorded earthquakes and maximum magnitudes,” they reported. They further elaborated that the activity has largely remained concentrated in the same specific area, pointing out that “no new micro-seismic surges have been observed since February 15.”
Since the start of the swarm, the committee has documented over 20,000 earthquakes of magnitude 1 or greater, with the strongest recorded tremor measuring up to 5.3. Fortunately, these events have resulted in only minor damage to the region's infrastructure.
Santorini’s Mayor, Nikos Zorzos, announced on Monday that several thousand people had returned to the island since late last week. He urged government authorities to provide further assistance to manage the associated risks better. This includes measures to control rockfalls and the installation and repair of fencing on the hillslopes, which is crucial for maintaining safety on the island.
As the situation continues to unfold, monitoring and assessment remain critical for both local authorities and the scientific community to ensure a safe environment for the residents and visitors of Santorini and its surrounding islands.
Source: Noah Wire Services