Santorini, Greece, has faced a multitude of earthquakes since January 25, causing over 13,000 residents to flee from the island. With recent seismic activity registering 160 tremors above magnitude 4, experts warn of potential larger quakes. Authorities have implemented safety measures, including the closure of schools, while emergency support is being provided to anxious residents, creating a deserted atmosphere on this popular tourist island.
Santorini, an iconic tourist destination in Greece, has experienced a series of frequent earthquakes since January 25, resulting in significant repercussions for its residents. Over 13,000 of the island’s 15,500 inhabitants have evacuated due to the ongoing tremors. Typically a slow month for tourism, the island has turned eerily quiet, punctuated only by the presence of a few tourists, primarily from Asia.
The seismic activity has reached alarming levels, with reports of over 160 tremors registering above magnitude 4 in merely the first nine days of February, eclipsing the previous year’s total of 90 for the same magnitude. The strongest recorded tremor was a magnitude-5.2 quake that struck northeast of Santorini. The instability has also affected nearby islands, making predictions about future seismic behavior exceedingly complex, according to experts.
Authorities have reacted by closing schools and prohibiting large gatherings to ensure public safety. Emergency teams are currently stationed on the island, with evacuation vessels prepared should the need arise. Additionally, fears of landslides have led to the sealing off of certain areas, while sandbags have been deployed to protect coastal homes. Psychologists from the Hellenic Red Cross are providing support to anxious residents, and local clergy have been holding prayers for the cessation of the quakes.
The situation in Santorini remains precarious as the island grapples with incessant earthquakes leading to mass evacuations. While there are signs of potential stabilization, experts warn that the possibility of larger quakes persists. Authorities are taking safety measures seriously, with ongoing psychological support for affected residents. The current landscape of Santorini is stark, with its once-bustling streets now largely deserted.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
