Recent geological tremors spark fears prompting a mass evacuation from the Greek tourist hotspot.
### Evacuations Surge in Santorini as Earthquake Threat Looms
### Evacuations Surge in Santorini as Earthquake Threat Looms
Amid escalating seismic activity, thousands of Santorini residents abandon the island for safety.
In the wake of over 300 recorded earthquakes in just two days, authorities in Santorini have initiated a massive evacuation effort. Since Sunday, approximately 6,000 individuals have departed the island via ferry, as locals flee the uncertain conditions created by increasing seismic activity. Emergency flights were also facilitated, with many residents opting for safety on the mainland rather than risk exposure to potential hazards.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reassured the public while emphasizing the importance of safety measures due to the tremors, some of which have reached magnitudes of 4.7. The island's usual buzz of tourism has been subdued, as emergency measures like school closures and limitations on gatherings remain in effect, while residents are advised to evacuate high-risk areas.
Santorini, acclaimed for its stunning architecture and tourism allure, has seen the majority of evacuees being locals, given the off-peak timing of February. Still, hundreds have lined up at the port, eager to leave, with one resident expressing how the island feels deserted amid the crisis. In addition, airlines have mobilized resources to ensure safe transportation for the evacuees.
Local geological experts have indicated that the quakes represent minor tremors connected to tectonic shifts, rather than volcanic activity, with the last significant eruption being documented in the 1950s. Nevertheless, the Hellenic Volcanic Arc where Santorini is situated continues to keep authorities on alert, with emergency services prepared for potential fallout.
Preventive steps are diligently observed, including the advisement to clear swimming pools and avoid certain vulnerable spots on the island. The South Aegean Regional Fire Department has increased readiness, and rescue teams are actively monitoring for developments as up to 15,500 residents face uncertainty about returning to their homes amidst ongoing tremors.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reassured the public while emphasizing the importance of safety measures due to the tremors, some of which have reached magnitudes of 4.7. The island's usual buzz of tourism has been subdued, as emergency measures like school closures and limitations on gatherings remain in effect, while residents are advised to evacuate high-risk areas.
Santorini, acclaimed for its stunning architecture and tourism allure, has seen the majority of evacuees being locals, given the off-peak timing of February. Still, hundreds have lined up at the port, eager to leave, with one resident expressing how the island feels deserted amid the crisis. In addition, airlines have mobilized resources to ensure safe transportation for the evacuees.
Local geological experts have indicated that the quakes represent minor tremors connected to tectonic shifts, rather than volcanic activity, with the last significant eruption being documented in the 1950s. Nevertheless, the Hellenic Volcanic Arc where Santorini is situated continues to keep authorities on alert, with emergency services prepared for potential fallout.
Preventive steps are diligently observed, including the advisement to clear swimming pools and avoid certain vulnerable spots on the island. The South Aegean Regional Fire Department has increased readiness, and rescue teams are actively monitoring for developments as up to 15,500 residents face uncertainty about returning to their homes amidst ongoing tremors.
