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.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Australia’s Cypriot communities to mark 51 years since Turkish invasion of Cyprus

Cypriot communities across Australia are preparing a series of events to mark the 51st anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

From Bexley to Thessaloniki: Dimitri Sidiropoulos’ rise in Greek volleyball

Dimitri Sidiropoulos has has spread his wings and is showcasing his athletic talent in Greece, devoting his full love to volleyball.

STEM holiday program by Greek Community of Melbourne Schools a hit

The Greek Community of Melbourne’s Schools recently completed a successful and engaging educational initiative titled “STEM in Their Element"

Huge comeback win for St George Men’s team

The St George Men’s team faced a massive challenge: a 5am bus trip to Wagga Wagga to take on the formidable Wagga Wagga Heat.

Creditors of Bill Ferg’s Lobster Cave face total loss as rescue bid stalls

Creditors of Melbourne’s iconic seafood venue The Lobster Cave have been warned they are unlikely to recover any of the millions owed.

You May Also Like

‘They are men’: Dr Ioannis Filippatos weighs in on Olympic boxing gender row

Dr Ioannis Filippatos has weighed in on the gender controversy surrounding Algeria's Imane Khelif at this year's Paris Olympics.

John Stamolis questions projections for Inner West Council de-merger

Independent Councillor, John Stamolis, has questioned the first draft to de-merge Sydney's Inner West Council into its three previous councils

Cyprus on standby as Middle East violence spreads

Cyprus is on standby to assist in the evacuation of Europeans and third-country nationals if conflict in the Middle East deepens.