Greek islands brace for potential stronger tremors after 200 quakes
On the Greek islands of Amorgos and Santorini, approximately 200 seismic tremors were recorded within 48 hours. The most powerful tremor had a magnitude of 4.9. No injuries or damage have been reported. Experts do not rule out the possibility of a stronger earthquake occurring.
Preventative measures have been introduced in the Cyclades, a group of islands situated in the southwestern part of the Aegean Sea, off Greece’s southeastern coast. These measures concern the islands frequently visited by tourists: Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios.
On Monday, schools in the area will be closed. According to the Greek broadcaster ERT, the fire department is on alert, and a rescue team with dogs has arrived on Santorini, one of the most popular Greek islands among tourists. Tents have been set up on the island, and hotels and residents are advised to drain swimming pools.
The authorities have published maps showing gathering points and evacuation plans. In the event of strong tremors, residents should evacuate from coastal areas. On Sunday evening, an urgent meeting was conducted under the leadership of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to address the situation in the region.
Experts: a stronger tremor may occur
Experts emphasise that the tremors are linked to tectonic movements, not volcanic activity. However, they do not rule out the possibility of a strong tremor with a magnitude of around 6.
ERT also reports that life in Santorini continues as usual. "The residents are calm; there are many cars on the roads, and the cafes are full," the report reads. The residents have said they are not afraid because they are accustomed to seismic tremors. However, they remain cautious in case of a stronger earthquake.
Greece is situated on major geological faults, and earthquakes are common there. Although their epicentres are mostly at sea, there have been no fatalities.
Around 1600 BC, in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, on the island known today as Thera or Santorini, a massive volcanic explosion occurred. It fractured the island and covered the entire region with a thick layer of ash. According to volcanologists, it was one of the strongest volcanic eruptions in known history.
