Greek authorities have sent special forces, rescue teams, tents and drones to the popular tourist destination Santorini after hundreds of seismic tremors hit the island – sparking fears of an imminent larger earthquake.
Schools were closed and people have been informed to avoid certain areas and spaces including the shoreline, abandoned buildings and empty swimming pools. They have also been advised to refrain from gathering in large numbers in enclosed spaces.
As a result of seismic activity, the civil protection ministry said schools would be shut for one day as a precautionary measure.
Speaking to the state broadcaster ERT, professor of geophysics at Thessaloniki’s Aristole University, Kostas Papazachos says “nothing can be ruled out,” highlighting the need for preparation.
He continued: “And that’s why precautionary measures are being put in place, precisely to limit the impact of a stronger earthquake.”
Whilst Greece is often impacted by earthquakes due to sitting on multiple faultlines, experts labelled the recent seismic activity that took place over 48 hours as dramatic. Over 200 tremors was recorded, which according to the experts were trigged by tectonic rather than volcanic acitivty.
A high number of the earthquakes measured between 4 and 4.5 on the Richter scale, with the strongest recorded in waters between Santorini and Amorgos and by Sunday evening, rescue teams in Santorini set up tents on basketball courts and car parks.
In the event of a tsunami, residents and tourists were instructed to head inland.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated their information page regarding travel advice for Brits in or planning to visit Greece.
The website states: “The Greek Ministry of Civil Protection has issued advice for Santorini (Thira), Anafi, Ios and Amorgos, following increased seismic activity in the area. Schools will remain closed on Monday 3 February 2025. People are advised not to attend large indoors gatherings and to avoid old or abandoned buildings.
“The Greek Ministry advises people to avoid the ports of Amoudi, Armeni, Korfos and Old Port (Paleos Limenas) in the area of Fira and to choose safe routes when travelling, particularly in areas where the landslide risk is high. In case of a strong tremor, people should immediately depart coastal areas.”
Meetings took place over the weekend and today to discuss further protective measures.
Regarding earthquakes and tremors in the affected areas, the FCDO says to familiarise yourself with safety procedues, follow advice given by local authorities and to call the Greek emergency services on 112 if in “immedidate danger”.
