Santorini Evacuations Prompted by Ongoing Earthquakes

Santorini, Greece, experiences severe seismic activity leading to mass evacuations. Over 13,000 of its residents have left due to thousands of tremors, culminating in a recent 5.2 magnitude earthquake. Though some stabilization is noted, experts warn of the potential for more significant earthquakes, prompting safety measures and community support efforts.

Santorini, a renowned Greek island, has recently experienced a dramatic decline in its population due to incessant seismic activity. Despite attracting over three million tourists annually, more than 13,000 of its 15,500 residents have evacuated, leaving the island unusually quiet amid ongoing earthquakes that began on January 25. Many streets now appear nearly deserted, aside from a few tourists mainly from Asia.

The island has faced thousands of tremors, some occurring every few minutes, culminating in a significant 5.2 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday. While most tremors have been relatively minor, the area has recorded 160 tremors over a magnitude of 4 in the first nine days of February, compared to 90 throughout the entirety of the previous year, as stated by Vassilis Karastathis, director of the Institute of Geodynamics at the National Observatory of Athens.

Experts express uncertainty about the future seismic activity on Santorini, highlighting the unpredictability of such geological disturbances. “There are signs of stabilization, but we need to see a further drop in the frequency of the tremors to be sure,” said Mr. Karastathis, emphasizing that while some seismic energy has been released, the possibility of a sizable earthquake cannot be discounted.

In response to the tremors, local authorities have taken precautionary measures, including closing schools and prohibiting large indoor gatherings. Emergency services remain on alert for potential evacuations, while some regions of Santorini have been cordoned off due to landslide risks. Psychologists from the Hellenic Red Cross are assisting anxious residents, and community prayers have been offered for the cessation of the quakes.

In summary, Santorini faces a critical situation as continuous earthquakes have led to mass evacuations and heightened anxiety among its residents. With thousands choosing to leave the island, authorities are implementing safety measures while experts continue to monitor the seismic patterns. The future of this popular tourist destination remains uncertain amidst ongoing geological challenges.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com