Santorini Declares Emergency Amid Ongoing Earthquake Activity

Santorini has declared an emergency following over 6,000 earthquakes recorded since January 26, including a recent 5.2-magnitude quake. Approximately 11,000 people have evacuated the island. Experts are currently unable to predict when the seismic activity will cease, prompting the government to prepare for various scenarios.

Santorini, a popular tourist destination in Greece, has declared a state of emergency following a sequence of earthquakes, the most recent being a 5.2-magnitude quake on Wednesday evening. The continuous seismic activity has caused significant concern, including fears of a tsunami. The Athens Geodynamic Institute reported that seven aftershocks above 4.0 in magnitude were recorded early Thursday, leading the Greek Civil Protection Ministry to declare an emergency status until March 3.

Since January 26, the region has experienced over 6,000 earthquakes, prompting mass evacuations. Approximately 11,000 individuals, including tourists and locals, have fled the island, as ferry services are suspended due to high winds. Santorini annually welcomes over 3.4 million visitors, but its usual permanent population of about 20,000 is now significantly reduced due to the crisis.

Despite the declining intensity of seismic events as noted by researchers, there is still considerable uncertainty about when the tremors will cease. Authorities remain vigilant and prepared for any possible outcomes. With the potential for tsunamis being taken seriously, neighboring regions, like Israel, are also heightening their preparedness against seismic threats. Experts continue to monitor the situation closely.

Original Source: interestingengineering.com