Mass exodus from Santorini as earthquake swarm continues

·

Thousands of residents and tourists are fleeing Santorini as persistent seismic activity continues to rattle the popular Greek island. Over the past few days, more than 1,200 tremors have been recorded, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 5.1.

The ongoing seismic swarm has led to growing anxiety, prompting around 10,000 people to leave, despite no official evacuation order being issued.

The sudden spike in departures has placed immense pressure on transport services. The Greek Coast Guard confirmed that more than 4,600 people have left by ferry since Sunday, February 2, while Aegean Airlines reported that nearly 1,300 people flew out of Santorini on Monday, February 3, alone. Additional flights have been scheduled to accommodate the demand, as ferry and flight bookings continue to surge.

Although no significant structural damage has been reported, authorities have taken precautionary measures. Schools on Santorini, Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi have been ordered to close until further notice, while emergency teams have been deployed as a precautionary step.

Photo: AFP / Getty Images.

The government has also instructed hotels and residents to empty swimming pools to prevent potential hazards in the event of stronger tremors.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed the situation, stating, “This is a very intense geological phenomenon.” He urged residents to “remain calm.”

Seismologists monitoring the situation have indicated that the current seismic activity is not linked to Santorini’s volcanic system but rather to nearby underwater faults. They warn that this pattern of tremors could persist for days or even weeks.

Santorini, one of Greece’s most renowned tourist destinations, is now facing uncertainty as the tremors disrupt daily life. While many residents and visitors have left, some tourists remain, experiencing an unusually quiet island.

Local businesses, already facing economic challenges, are concerned that prolonged uncertainty could severely impact tourism, especially with the peak travel season approaching.

As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents and tourists remain on high alert. Officials are reassuring the public that they are prepared for any developments while urging caution.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Review: A Cretan culinary journey with Peter Conistis at Ammos, Brighton-Le-Sands

To mark the first anniversary of Ammos at Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney, Peter Conistis launched his much-anticipated regional dinner series.

Greek Welfare Centre launches 2025 Winter Community Appeal to support families in need

The Greek Welfare Centre will host its annual Winter Community Appeal on Thursday, 24 July 2025, at Marrickville Town Hall, from 9am to 4pm.

Fronditha Care finalists shine in national aged care awards

Ageing Australia’s 2025 You are ACE! Awards are a national initiative that recognises individuals making a positive impact in aged care.

Australia-Greece medical ties strengthen with push for mutual recognition of degrees

Efforts to enhance Australia-Greece medical cooperation were the focus of a meeting between Dr Pirpiris, Dr Pantos and Prof Arkadopoulos.

Cypriot Australian Koraly Dimitriadis wins US poetry award

Controversial, Cypriot-Australian poet, writer, performer, film and theatre maker, Koraly Dimitradis's first poetry book, Love and Fck Poems.

You May Also Like

Kastellorizian spirit, Australian heart: Eleni Millios-Hullick’s mission to cure brain cancer

Eleni Millios-Hullick is a passionate Greek Australian from Townsville, Queensland, and the current CEO of The Cure Starts Now Australia.

Football Australia unveils the ‘Australian Championship’  

Following the confirmation of the NST format, Football Australia proudly announced the launch of the Australian Championship. 

Nick Andriotakis on the legacy of OXI Day and its influence on post war migration to Australia

Nick Andriotakis talks to The Greek Herald about the legacy of OXI Day and its influence on post war migration to Australia.