Greek Island of Santorini Shaken by Quakes

A series of earthquakes have struck the Greek island of Santorini, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, causing panic across the region and forcing the closure of numerous schools, AFP reported. According to reports, several earthquakes were felt on the Greek island of Santorini in the Aegean Sea between Saturday and Sunday (February 2). The strongest of these earthquakes was a magnitude 4.6.

According to the Department of Geophysics at the University of Athens, two earthquakes measuring 4.1 and 4.5 struck the island of Santorini on Sunday, following 11 more aftershocks in the hours before. 

Authorities have ordered schools in Santorini to remain closed until Monday (February 3) after a series of earthquakes. The move was ordered by Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias. 

 

Santorini and its surrounding islands are known for their large volcanic eruptions. However, according to the Athens News Agency, authorities said the earthquakes were not caused by a volcanic eruption, but by the movement of tectonic plates.

 

Greek authorities have urged citizens to avoid large gatherings in the area and stay away from certain populated areas. Santorini is one of the most popular islands for tourists. Its population is just 15,500. But in 2023, 3.4 million visitors came here. Experts have expressed concern, calling it an overtourism phenomenon.