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Santorini Shaken by Continuous Earthquakes
Santorini—As dozens of earthquakes continued to shake the Greek island for the fourth consecutive day, residents and visitors scrambled to leave. Authorities scheduled additional flights and boats to evacuate people, while schools in Santorini and nearby islands, including Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi, were ordered to remain closed until Friday.
Seismologists have detected tremors between the volcanoes of Santorini and Amorgos in the Aegean Sea. The Cyclades region experienced multiple earthquakes on Monday, some registering magnitudes above 4. As a result, many residents avoided small ports and confined indoor spaces. In response, emergency units were deployed to ensure safety and assist those affected.
Residents and Tourists Flee Santorini
Given that several of Santorini’s most populated areas are located atop steep cliffs, experts predict that the seismic activity could persist for weeks. While permanent residents seem accustomed to earthquakes, some workers and tourists on the island chose to leave.
“For three days now, there have been earthquakes every five minutes. It is continuous; they don’t stop at all. The entire island is traumatized,” said Tzanis Lignos, 35, who managed to secure tickets for his family.
His wife struggled to sleep due to the intense shaking and noise. “We can’t stay here any longer,” he added.
Many families, particularly those with young children, hurried to board evacuation ships. “There are earthquakes all the time. It is intense, and we feel it,” said 72-year-old Zoi Lignou. “We have been patient for three days, but today was the worst, so we decided to leave for as long as necessary.”
Additional Flights to and from Santorini
In response to the crisis, Greece’s Civil Protection Ministry requested airlines to facilitate travel for those wishing to leave Santorini. Aegean Airlines announced three additional flights on Monday and Tuesday to help residents and tourists.
Professor Efthymios Lekkas, an expert in disaster management and tectonic geology, stated on Greek television, “We estimate that this seismic activity will continue for several days, and a prolonged sequence of earthquakes is possible.”
Santorini’s Volcanic History and Current Situation
Greece is frequently affected by earthquakes due to its location on multiple fault lines. Santorini itself was shaped by one of history’s most massive volcanic eruptions around 1600 BC. The most recent volcanic activity in the area occurred in 1950.
Despite concerns, experts confirmed that the recent minor volcanic activity near Santorini is unrelated to the current earthquakes. However, with tremors persisting, residents and officials remain on high alert.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while assisting those choosing to evacuate the island.
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