State of Emergency Announced in Santorini Amid Frequent Earthquakes

A profound state of emergency has been declared on Santorini in response to a sequence of earthquakes, including a significant magnitude 5.2 quake. It has led to the evacuation of over 11,000 individuals and heightened concerns about potential aftershocks.

A state of emergency has officially been declared on the picturesque Greek island of Santorini following an unsettling wave of earthquakes that have rattled the region over the last few days. The announcement comes on the heels of a powerful magnitude 5.2 tremor detected on Wednesday evening at 21:09 local time (19:09 GMT). This quake, the most intense recorded in recent days, struck between Santorini and Amorgos at a depth of 5 kilometers (3.1 miles).

Officials have indicated that the state of emergency will remain in effect until 3 March in order to "address the emergency needs and manage the consequences" associated with the ongoing seismic activity. In light of the tremors, over 11,000 residents and tourists have evacuated Santorini, with approximately 7,000 fleeing via ferry and 4,000 by air.

Furthermore, on Thursday morning, another quake of magnitude 4.7 was detected southwest of Amorgos, accompanied by numerous smaller seismic events. While the magnitude of 5.2 is considered moderate compared to more severe quakes (6.0 and above), authorities are not taking any chances, remaining on high alert for any potential aftershocks.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is scheduled to visit Santorini on Friday, as stress mounts over the continuing seismic unrest. Vasilis Karastathis, director of the Geodynamic Institute, stated that "seismic activity persists at the same intensity observed in previous days." He emphasizes the need to stay vigilant as the region may not be past the seismic episode.

The disruption occurs during a typically low tourist season, which means the majority of those evacuating are local residents and workers. However, the urgency to repair critical infrastructure is imperative, allowing repair works to commence without the usual bureaucratic delays.

Experts have warned of the unpredictability of seismic swarms and the potential for volcanic crises, akin to historical events in Santorini. In response, emergency generators and backup communication systems have been deployed to bolster the island's resilience.

Concerns about a tsunami have compelled islanders to build makeshift defenses along Monolithos beach, a vulnerable area due to its proximity to the sea. Hospitals are on high alert, with all medical staff prepared to assist those choosing to stay amidst ongoing threats.

In addition, an array of personnel including additional ambulance crews, police, and military units have been sent to the island, while specialized firefighters trained in disaster response are also on standby. Meanwhile, inclement weather has hindered ferry operations from Santorini to Piraeus, leaving many travelers stranded at the port as emergency ferry routes are established.

Schools across Santorini and other neighboring islands, namely Anafi, Paros, Naxos, and Mykonos, remain closed while officials evaluate safety conditions for reopening. Earlier, Prime Minister Mitsotakis conveyed optimism, urging residents to "stay calm and cooperate with the authorities."

In light of the ongoing situation, the Thira Chamber of Commerce has requested a suspension of business operations on the island and the implementation of emergency support measures reminiscent of those released during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seismologists have attributed the recent quakes to tectonic plate movements, rather than volcanic activity. While the precise timing and scale of earthquakes cannot be predicted, authorities leverage historical patterns to foster preparedness in areas known for seismic activity. As Santorini and nearby islands remain situated near tectonic fault lines, the residents brace themselves for possible continued tremors in the days to come.