Seismic activity remains intense in the Cyclades, with 46 earthquakes recorded between midnight and 6 a.m. on Wednesday. In the early hours, two strong tremors measuring 4.0 and 4.3 on the Richter scale struck within a five-minute interval, shaking both Santorini and Amorgos.

The first occurred at 4:16 a.m., centered 18 km south-southwest of Arcesine, Amorgos, at a depth of 10.8 km. The second, at 4:21 a.m., was located 17 km south-southwest of Arkesini, with a depth of 11.8 km.

In response to the ongoing crisis, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has scheduled an emergency meeting at 1 p.m. today at the Ministry of Civil Protection to address the escalating situation in Santorini and Amorgos.

Santorini

Unprecedented Seismic Frequency Raises Concerns

The total number of recorded earthquakes in the region has now surpassed 2,500, an unusually high frequency. The Interdisciplinary Risk and Crisis Management Committee of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens has warned that the seismic pattern could indicate a foreshock sequence, meaning a larger earthquake could follow.

Fire and Rescue Teams on High Alert

The South Aegean Regional Fire Department remains on general alert, with increased readiness across all eight Special Disaster Response Units (EMAK) in Greece.

The Mobile Operations Center “OLYMPOS” has arrived in Santorini to assist in emergency response efforts. Additionally, 51 firefighters, nine vehicles, rescue dogs, and drones have been deployed to the island.

Santorini

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Reinforcements have also been sent to Amorgos, Ios, Astypalaia, and Anafi, while a Fire Service helicopter with aerial rescuers remains on standby in Naxos.

Amorgos Affected by Tremors

Amorgos has also been significantly affected by the tremors, with residents expressing deep concern. Konstantinos Grispos, Deputy Mayor of Civil Protection of Amorgos, stated:
“We have never experienced anything like this. There is growing concern, especially after the 5.0 magnitude earthquakes.”

Authorities are keeping the island on high alert, with an EMAK team on standby. Contingency plans have also been prepared in case of power outages.

Mass Evacuations from Santorini

Residents and visitors continue to evacuate Santorini for fear of their safety. Over 11,000 people have already left the island as the earthquakes continue for a fourth consecutive day.

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With growing fears of a major earthquake, most businesses have shut down, and airlines and ferry operators have increased the number of departures to accommodate the fleeing population.

Scientists Differ in Predictions

Scientists are closely monitoring the seismic activity and evaluating possible scenarios. The epicenter of the earthquakes appears to be above the islet of Anydros, raising questions about the potential magnitude of future tremors.

Experts remain divided on whether the recent 5.0 magnitude earthquake was the main event. Seismologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos suggested that it might have been the mainshock, while Efthymios Lekkas argued that it was too small to be considered the final major quake.

Professor of Geophysics Costas Papazachos has warned that there is a real possibility of a stronger earthquake, potentially reaching 6.5 on the Richter scale. Similarly, Professor of Geology Dimitrios Papanikolaou conjured that the length of the fault could produce a magnitude 6 earthquake.

Santorini

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Others believe the seismic activity may subside naturally. Lekkas, President of the Earthquake Planning & Protection Organization (EPPO), suggested that a 5.2 or 5.3 magnitude earthquake could help release built-up energy, reducing the chances of a stronger quake.

The pattern of consecutive tremors exceeding 4.0 on the Richter scale has led some experts to conclude that the region is experiencing a seismic swarm. Professor of Seismology Vasilis Karakostas observed that the activity has intensified in recent days.

Professor Manolis Skordilis from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki believes the current period represents the peak of the seismic activity, with an expected gradual decline in both the number and magnitude of earthquakes.

Is There a Risk of Volcanic Activity?

Given the volcanic history of Santorini, scientists are also investigating whether the continuous tremors could trigger volcanic activity. However, volcanologist Georgios Vougioukalakis reassured the public that there is no indication of volcanic activation in the Nea Kameni or Kolumbo volcanoes.