Greece has declared a state of emergency in Santorini due to a surge in seismic activity, culminating in a 5.2-magnitude earthquake. While the tremors have caused minimal damage, thousands of residents are evacuating, and schools have closed as safety measures are put in place. Experts assert that the seismic activity is not related to volcanic activity.
Greece’s government has officially declared a state of emergency for the popular tourist destination of Santorini due to a significant increase in seismic activity. Over the past week, hundreds of undersea tremors have troubled the island, culminating in a 5.2-magnitude earthquake. This latest quake is noted as the strongest since the initial tremors began on January 31. The Ministry of Civil Protection announced this emergency measure to facilitate immediate support and access to state resources for the affected island.
Santorini, a renowned Greek island, is situated at the convergence of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, making Greece notably susceptible to earthquakes. Historically, the island has not only dealt with significant seismic events, but it also suffered from a catastrophic volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, with the last recorded eruption occurring in 1950. The recent earthquake activity, according to experts, is not linked to any volcanic movements in the adjacent Aegean Sea, further clarifying safety concerns for both residents and visitors.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Santorini reflects the seriousness of the undersea tremors impacting the island. While there has been minimal damage thus far, significant precautionary measures—including evacuations and school closures—indicate the efforts to ensure public safety. As authorities mobilize resources and personnel, the island’s community is advised to adhere to local guidance amid these seismic events.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
