Intensified Seismic Activity in Santorini: Over 7,700 Earthquakes Recorded
With over 7,700 earthquakes recorded since January, seismic activity around Santorini has intensified. Residents are on high alert following significant tremors, with experts monitoring the situation and emphasizing the need for preparedness against potential larger quakes. Geological assessments highlight complex fault lines in the region, adding to safety concerns.
On February 9, seismic activity surged around Santorini, Greece, highlighted by a 5.0 magnitude earthquake located 15 km southwest of Arkessini, Amorgos. This quake followed a 5.2 magnitude tremor on February 5, raising alarms among locals and scientists about possible impending seismic threats. Residents expressed concern as the frequency and magnitude of quakes have increased significantly in recent days, prompting discussions about readiness for larger events.
Vasilis Karastathis, the Director of the Geodynamic Institute, acknowledged a more steady trend in recent earthquakes, asserting that while there is a decreasing frequency, larger earthquakes cannot be ruled out. He stated, “Since the day before yesterday, a better rhythm has started, a slower rhythm in the earthquakes. This has been maintained.” Despite this cautious optimism, the potential risk of a more significant quake remains.
Local inhabitants have shown heightened anxiety, resulting in the preparation of emergency kits. Many residents and tourists from Santorini and nearby islands like Amorgos have evacuated over the past weeks, keeping emergency supplies accessible. This uncertainty has led to a growing sense of urgency among the population, reflecting the fear of potential disaster.
Professor of Anti-Seismic Constructions, Panagiotis Karydis, emphasized that earthquake epicenters could significantly impact the level of destruction. He noted, “An earthquake from the northeastern side of Santorini, at 6 Richter, in my opinion, will create much smaller problems than one at 4.5-5 Richter from the area of the Caldera.” This distinction highlights the importance of earthquake location in assessing risk.
Experts are diligently monitoring seismic activities, implementing additional seismographs for enhanced analysis. Oceanographic studies are also planned to investigate the geological drivers of the recurrent tremors. Since January 26, a sequence of thousands of earthquakes has been documented, totaling over 7,700 events in the Santorini-Amorgos region, with around 6,000 occurring close to the maritime area.
Seismologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos indicated that the seismic swarm may be at a critical juncture, speculating if the February 5 event might represent the main quake. He remarked, “We have reached the critical point. We have the first case, if the 5.2 Richter was the main one,” stressing the need for ongoing assessments to interpret the evolving situation.
The seismic unrest in Santorini has also sparked concerns outside of Greece, particularly in Israel, where fear of a possible tsunami has led to an emergency meeting of the National Security Council. The Deputy Head reassured that the threat level was being evaluated alongside relevant governmental bodies. Dr. Efraim Laor commented on the tsunami risk, stating, “In any case, if an earthquake of more than 6.5 degrees occurs on the island, then there will definitely be a tsunami, but it is not at all certain that it will reach Israel.”
The region’s geology contributes to its seismic intensity, characterized by complex fault lines indicative of tectonic movement. The area between Santorini and Amorgos possesses significant geological activity, making it a focal point for geologists. The historical context adds weight to these concerns, with the devastating 1956 7.7 magnitude earthquake causing extensive destruction and triggering a tsunami nearly 30 meters high.
The seismic activity around Santorini has intensified since January, leading to thousands of recorded quakes, sparking concern among residents and experts. While authorities monitor the situation and prepare emergency measures, the potential for larger seismic events necessitates caution. Understanding the geological context and the epicenter’s role in damage assessment remains critical. Precautionary measures are being implemented, but historical precedents add urgency to the current monitoring efforts.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
