The Greek island of Santorini faces a seismic crisis which has forced the evacuation of thousands of people in recent days. Since late January 2025, the region has been shaken by an intense seismic swarm, with more than 600 tremors recorded by the first week of February. Authorities have deployed emergency measures to protect the population, including closing schools and suspending public activities.
More than 11.000 evacuated due to fear of new earthquakes
Since seismic activity began to intensify, Thousands of people have left the island, using ferries and commercial flights that have increased their frequency to facilitate the departure of residents and tourists. In some cases, the high demand for transport has generated traffic jams on the roads leading to the main departure points, with long queues at the port and the airport of Santorini. The seismic swarm in the region is being studied by seismology experts.
Airlines and shipping companies have scheduled additional routes, which has allowed up to 2.500 people to be evacuated by air in just two days. Despite the mass exodus, some inhabitants have decided to remain on the island, trusting that seismic activity will stabilise in the coming days.
School closures and precautionary measures
As part of preventive measures, The Greek government has ordered the closure of educational centres on Santorini and other affected islands such as Amorgos, Ios and Anafi, at least until next Friday. In addition, gatherings in closed spaces have been restricted and the population has been advised to stay away from cliffs and avoid coastal areas.
Rescue teams and disaster management specialists have been deployed. to deal with any emergency, in addition to reinforcing the presence of firefighters and civil protection personnel. Safe areas and tents have also been set up for those who prefer not to remain at home.
Is a major earthquake coming?
Seismology experts have pointed out that the current sequence of earthquakes corresponds to a seismic swarm, which means that there is not a single main earthquake followed by aftershocks, but a series of tremors of different intensities in a short period of time. The formation of gold nuggets in the region it has also been linked to seismic activity.
According to the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, The strongest earthquakes have reached magnitudes of up to 5 on the Richter scale, with epicenters located in the sea, between Santorini and Amorgos. This seismic activity is attributed to the region's underwater faults and not to the Santorini volcano, although stronger earthquakes have been recorded in the area in the past, such as the one in 1956, which generated a 30-meter tsunami. To better understand these phenomena and their relationship to tectonics, you can consult .
Although some seismologists consider it possible that an earthquake of magnitude greater than 6 could relieve the accumulated tension on the fault, Others warn that the activity could continue for weeks. or even months before completely dissipating.
Impact on daily life and the local economy
The situation has caused significant disruption to the daily lives of Santorini residents. Some residents fear for their safety and have opted to sleep outdoors., in vehicles or in spaces designated by the authorities. In addition, hotels have been instructed to empty their swimming pools, since the weight of the water could compromise the stability of the buildings in the event of a stronger earthquake.
The tourism sector has also been affected, with reservation cancellations and a decrease in visitor numbers, even though the high season has not yet begun. Tourists still on the island have been informed about safety measures and steps to take in the event of a major earthquake. Seismic activity on the Greek islands is also affecting sea conditions. Aegean Sea.
Despite the uncertainty, Authorities insist that all necessary precautions are being taken and that the situation is being constantly monitored. The population has been urged to remain calm and to follow the recommendations of Civil Protection, without giving in to unnecessary alarmism.