State of Emergency Declared in Santorini Following Intense Seismic Activity

In a dramatic turn of events, the Greek island of Santorini has been placed under a state of emergency due to an unprecedented series of earthquakes that have rocked the region. The declaration was made on February 6, 2025, in response to the intense seismic activity that has been affecting the island over the past few weeks.

Seismic Activity and Evacuations

The Greek earthquake authority has recorded more than 6,000 tremors off the coast of Santorini in the last two weeks, with at least one significant earthquake reaching a magnitude of 5.2. This level of seismic activity is the highest the region has experienced since 1964. The persistent and frequent tremors, occurring every hour, have led to the evacuation of at least 11,000 people from the popular tourist destination.

Tour guide Kostas Sakavaras, who has lived on the island, described the situation as shocking despite the island's history of minor tremors. "The persistency of it, that it lasts for so many days and the frequency of tremors every hour, is what makes this different," Sakavaras explained. He and his family chose to evacuate to Athens, taking only the essentials, as the intensity of the tremors kept them on high alert.

Impact on Daily Life

The state of emergency has significantly impacted daily life on the island. Schools have been closed for the week, and many businesses, including supermarkets and restaurants, are operating under reduced capacity. Those who have stayed behind are advised to keep an eye on homes left vacant by evacuees, as there are concerns about potential looting.

Despite the lack of significant material damage, the constant tension and noise from the tremors have created a sense of unease among the residents. Sakavaras noted that while buildings have not collapsed and there has been no major damage, the steep terrain of the island has led to some landslides and dust particles falling off the cliffs, which is not uncommon even without seismic activity.

Future Outlook

As the situation continues to unfold, there is uncertainty about when life will return to normal. Sakavaras and his family are waiting for the announcement that schools will reopen as a sign to return to their home on the island. With the tourist season yet to begin, there is hope that the situation will be resolved before the peak tourist period starts, allowing the island to recover and welcome visitors once again.

For now, the island remains quiet, with many residents and tourists alike watching from afar, hoping for a swift resolution to this seismic crisis.