Santorini Faces Earthquake Emergency as Evacuations and Tsunami…

Santorini declared a state of emergency following a 5.2 magnitude earthquake. Continuous tremors have led to mass evacuations of around 11,000 people, while nearby Israel prepares for potential tsunami threats. Experts indicate the seismic activity is decreasing but still remains unstable, prompting government interventions in both regions.

Santorini, a notable tourist destination in Greece, declared a state of emergency on February 6 following a significant 5.2 magnitude earthquake that occurred the previous evening. The island has been experiencing continuous tremors, greatly affecting daily life. Reports indicate that seven tremors exceeding magnitude 4.0 were recorded early Thursday, prompting the Greek Civil Protection Ministry to extend the state of emergency until March 3.

The earthquakes have resulted in the evacuation of approximately 11,000 individuals from the island, as ferries remain suspended due to adverse weather conditions. Given that Santorini is home to 20,000 permanent residents and attracts over 3.4 million annual visitors, the seismic activity has profoundly disrupted local life and tourism.

Since January 26, the Athens Geodynamic Institute has documented more than 6,000 tremors in the surrounding Aegean region, raising concerns among scientists regarding their persistence. Experts are currently unable to predict when seismic activity will stabilize. Dr. Athanassios Ganas stated that the shaking’s intensity is declining but still not fully stabilized.

In response to the ongoing seismic threats, Greece’s government officials are mobilizing resources to address any potential emergencies. Concurrently, Israel’s National Security Council is preparing for the possibility of a tsunami, given the historical risk associated with seismic activity in the region, especially considering the distance of 900 kilometers from Santorini.

As per local reports from Israel, authorities are advised to be prepared for tsunami waves resulting from the earthquake-induced waters. They have estimated that a tsunami could reach Israel within two hours following a major tremor, necessitating swift emergency management measures.

The earthquake activity near Santorini has drawn attention due to its potential impact on both local residents and tourists. Historically, Santorini is a volcanic island, which factors into its seismic risk. The region has been monitored closely by the Athens Geodynamic Institute, which has recorded an unprecedented number of tremors recently. As a precaution, neighboring countries, such as Israel, also consider the potential repercussions of these earthquakes, particularly the threat of tsunamis that could travel across the Mediterranean Sea.

In summary, Santorini has been significantly impacted by a series of earthquakes, necessitating a state of emergency and prompting mass evacuations. With thousands departing the island and further tremors expected, the local government is on high alert. Meanwhile, neighboring Israel prepares for potential tsunami threats as geological events unfold, showcasing the far-reaching consequences of seismic activities in this volatile region.

Original Source: www.wionews.com