Fear grips Greek holiday island of Santorini as earthquakes strike every ten minutes; here's what experts are saying

The people of Santorini are living in fear after a spike in seismic activity that has raised concerns about a potentially powerful earthquake on the Greek island, reported Daily Mail.

With tremors happening every ten minutes, many people run for their lives from the islands. Since January 28, Santorini and nearby islands like Amorgos have been shaken by over 200 tremors, while more than 555 have been recorded in total.

Unusual frequency

Though these earthquakes have not caused significant damage yet, their frequency is unusual, and this has left the residents anxious. Local Santorini resident Michalis Gerontakis, who also leads the Santorini Philharmonic Orchestra, admitted that the constant shaking has left everyone on edge, even as they try to avoid panic.


Gerontakis said "I have never felt anything like this and with such frequency - an earthquake every 10 or 20 minutes," quoted Daily Mail.

While Greek experts said the quakes, which have reached magnitude 4.9 are not linked to Santorini's volcano, they acknowledge that the pattern of seismic activity is cause for concern, as per the report.

Cause for concern

According to Daily Mail, the ground activity, which currently occurs near uninhabited islands like Anydros in the Aegean Sea, may still be a cause for concern. After all, the tremors are occurring in an area that is prone to tectonic movements, given that the Aegean tectonic plate is being pushed beneath the African plate. This causes friction that often leads to earthquakes.

Precautionary measures

Greek authorities have already implemented precautionary measures, warning visitors to avoid crowded indoor spaces and to stay away from areas vulnerable to rockslides. Authorities banned access to some seaside areas, including the island's old port, that are in close proximity to cliffs. Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias encouraged people to take safety precautions and to stay alert.

Tourists fear

A sense of unease hangs over Santorini, one of the world's top holiday destinations, that drew millions of visitors this year.

South Korean tourist Soo Jin Kim said "We had dinner last night at the hotel and felt mild shakes about 10 times. But at midnight we felt a big one, a big shake so I checked the news report we are half-worried and half-looking to see what the situation is," quoted Daily Mail

Tourists like Kim reported feeling worry intertwined with curiosity, as they experienced a series of multiple small tremors while staying on the island.

FAQs

Why are the earthquakes happening in Santorini?
The earthquakes are caused by tectonic plate movements in the Aegean Sea, not by the island’s volcano, though they are still worrying due to their frequency.

Is it safe to stay in Santorini during this time?
While there’s no immediate threat of an eruption, visitors are advised to follow safety protocols, avoid crowded indoor spaces, and stay clear of cliffs or areas prone to rockslides.