ATHENS, Greece – A swarm of over 12,000 earthquakes has struck near the volcanic island of Santorini in just over two weeks, raising concerns among scientists and authorities. While most of the quakes have been of small magnitude, experts warn that a larger tremor cannot be ruled out.
The University of Athens' crisis management committee reported Tuesday that the seismic activity, which began in late January, has led to a state of emergency on Santorini—one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations. Rescue teams, including drones and a sniffer dog, have been deployed, while coast guard and navy vessels are on standby.
The crisis has prompted thousands of residents and visitors to leave the island, and local schools have been ordered to remain closed for the week. Additional doctors and paramedics have been sent to Santorini’s hospital, with six disaster medicine teams on standby. Medical staff conducted evacuation drills on Tuesday, preparing for potential emergencies.
"The preparation of our health facilities for natural disasters such as earthquakes is of vital importance," said Deputy Health Minister Marios Themistokleous during a visit to the island’s hospital.
Seismologists are closely monitoring the earthquake swarm occurring between Santorini and Amorgos, as well as two nearby volcanoes. The quakes, ranging from magnitudes of 3 to just above 5, could either be a precursor to a larger earthquake or continue at lower magnitudes for weeks or months.
On Monday alone, 109 quakes were recorded, 13 of which exceeded magnitude 4. The largest so far, at magnitude 5.2, struck Monday night, followed by a magnitude 5 quake two hours later. Scientists have deployed additional monitoring equipment, while experts and government officials are holding regular discussions to assess the evolving situation.
Although Greece is seismically active, it is rare for any part of the country to experience such prolonged and intense earthquake activity. Santorini, known for its stunning whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, was shaped by a massive volcanic eruption in antiquity—one of the most powerful in human history. The ongoing tremors now have authorities and scientists on high alert, watching for signs of further escalation.
