Santorini Earthquake and Volcanic Activity: Latest Updates and Summary

Concerns are rising over the frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity recently occurring on the Greek island of Santorini. Thousands of residents and tourists have evacuated the island, drawing attention not only to Santorini but also to Greece as a whole. Below is a summary of the key points and impacts of this situation.

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1. Current Situation

(1) Earthquake Status

• Over 300 underwater earthquakes have occurred around Santorini in the past 72 hours, some registering above 4.5 to 5.0 on the Richter scale.
• The seismic activity is believed to be related to the activation of a fault line between Santorini and the nearby island of Amorgos.

(2) Evacuation Status

• More than 6,000 Santorini residents and a majority of tourists have left the island. Some estimates suggest the number of evacuees could reach approximately 12,000.
• Aegean Air, a Greek airline, doubled its flights, transporting approximately 2,700 people to Athens.
• The evacuation involved ports, airports, and even private small vessels.

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2. Santorini’s Risk Factors

(1) Causes of Seismic Activity

• Experts link the current earthquakes to the activation of an underwater fault line, noting a similar pattern to the major earthquake of 1956.
• The 1956 earthquake, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, triggered a tsunami, resulting in 53 deaths and over 100 injuries.

(2) Possibility of Volcanic Eruption

• Santorini is an island formed by a large volcanic eruption approximately 3,500 years ago, and activity above the crater continues to this day.
• The last eruption of the Santorini volcano was recorded in 1950, and experts mention the possibility of smaller-scale activity within a 50-year cycle.
• While it remains unclear whether the subtle seismic and volcanic activity detected within the caldera will lead to a large-scale eruption, experts warn that thorough monitoring is necessary.

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3. Impact on the Community and Tourism

(1) Local Residents and Infrastructure

• Most commercial activities have ceased, with shops, restaurants, and schools temporarily closed.
• Residents are spending nights in their cars or outdoors, preparing for potential earthquake risks.

(2) Tourism Industry

• With most tourists having left, Santorini is currently experiencing a quiet period.
• Some tourists have reportedly requested refunds for their accommodation.
• This is likely to cause significant economic damage to Santorini’s tourism industry.

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4. Expert Opinions and Future Measures

(1) Perspectives of Earthquake and Volcanic Experts

• Natural disaster expert Kostas Synolakis analyzed that the probability of a large-scale eruption is once in tens of thousands of years and the possibility is low at the moment.
• However, he emphasizes that the possibility of further strong earthquakes or smaller volcanic activity remains, and thorough observation and preparation are required.

(2) Government and Local Measures

• The Greek Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Ministry is installing additional monitoring sensors in Santorini and nearby islands.
• Rescue and emergency teams are deployed to prepare for potential disasters.

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5. Key Points Summary

• Increased Seismic Activity: Frequent earthquakes due to underwater fault line activity.
• Mass Evacuation: Approximately 6,000-12,000 residents and tourists have left the island.
• Volcanic Risk: Increased possibility of minor volcanic activity.
• Economic Damage: Severe impact on tourism and local businesses.
• Thorough Monitoring Required: Increased surveillance by the government and international experts.

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The situation in Santorini highlights the impact of natural disasters on human life and the economy. The situation remains dynamic, and further news and actions will be needed. Safety and early response are paramount at this time.

*Source URL:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/05/santorini-streets-empty-after-days-of-tremors-greece