Turkey’s AFAD and MTA reported that recent seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, especially near Santorini Island, may trigger volcanic activity. Since January 28, over 900 earthquakes have occurred, the strongest measuring 5.1. While past swarms did not lead to eruptions, ongoing monitoring is essential due to the region’s geological characteristics.
According to a report released by Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Mineral Research and Exploration General Directorate (MTA) on February 5, ongoing seismic activity in the Aegean Sea may lead to volcanic activity. Near Santorini Island, seismic activity began to escalate on January 28, resulting in over 900 recorded earthquakes by the report’s date. The most significant earthquake reached a magnitude of 5.1, with depths ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers.
The earthquakes are primarily located near the Kolumbo volcano, situated northeast of Santorini Island, approximately 140 kilometers from the Turkish coastline. Santorini’s volcanic complex has a history of eruptions, the last of which occurred in 1950, causing a tsunami that affected Turkey’s coast. This situation underscores the potential hazards, as volcanic activity can result from tectonic shifts and seismic events.
The report highlights the need for vigilance in monitoring the ongoing seismic activity due to the possibility of volcanic activity. However, a similar seismic event was recorded between 2011 and 2012 without resulting in any eruptions. The potential volcanic activity will depend on various geological factors, including eruption type and magma-water interactions.
The area in question is part of the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, which features multiple active volcanoes, including Santorini and Nisyros, that have experienced numerous eruptions in the last 10,000 years. The Aegean Subduction Zone, situated south of this volcanic arc, is characterized by the northward movement of the African Plate beneath the Aegean-Anatolian Plate at a rate of 20 millimeters annually. The Santorini earthquakes, which occur at shallow depths, have not yet been associated with deeper seismic events.
AFAD’s Earthquake Advisory Board, along with Turkish scientists, continues to monitor this seismic activity comprehensively. The public is cautioned against engaging with speculative information circulating on social media and is encouraged to rely on official statements from authoritative institutions.
The report from AFAD and MTA comes amid heightened seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, particularly near Santorini Island. This area is known for its geological instability, which can lead to significant volcanic activity due to tectonic and seismic interactions. Understanding the historical context and current activity in this region is vital for assessing potential hazards, particularly for surrounding areas, including Turkey. Historically, the Santorini caldera has been an active volcanic site, with notable eruptions recorded over millennia. The science of volcanology indicates that tectonic movement can trigger eruptions, hence the importance placed on monitoring recent seismic swarms. The geological features, including active subduction zones, further complicate the landscape, making geological assessment crucial in this seismic zone.
In summary, the report from Turkey’s authorities calls attention to the ongoing earthquakes in the Aegean Sea and their potential to spark volcanic activity. Although historical precedence indicates that heightened seismic activity does not always lead to eruptions, the unique geological setting necessitates careful monitoring. Citizens are urged to heed official communications as expert teams track developments in this region closely.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
