The Greek island of Santorini has declared a state of emergency due to a series of significant earthquakes, prompting the evacuation of 11,000 residents and tourists. The Athens Geodynamic Institute reported over 6,000 tremors since late January. Meanwhile, Israel has prepared for possible tsunami risks stemming from the situation.
On February 6, the Greek island of Santorini declared a state of emergency following a 5.2 magnitude earthquake recorded the previous evening. Continuous tremors have disrupted daily life, prompting authorities to declare an emergency status that will last until March 3. The Athens Geodynamic Institute reported multiple significant quakes, with seven measuring over 4.0 magnitude occurring early Thursday morning.
The recent seismic activity has led to the evacuation of around 11,000 individuals from Santorini, as ferries have been suspended due to adverse weather conditions. This picturesque island, which attracts over 3.4 million visitors annually, is home to approximately 20,000 year-round residents. Experts have expressed concerns regarding the ongoing tremors, yet they remain uncertain as to when the activity will cease.
According to Athanassios Ganas, research director at the Geodynamic Institute, the intensity of the quakes is decreasing but has yet to stabilize. Vassilis Karastathis, the institute’s deputy director, indicated that they are currently at “the halfway point” in this cycle of seismic activity. Since January 26, over 6,000 tremors have been documented in the Aegean Sea near surrounding islands.
In light of the seismic situation in Greece, Israel’s National Security Council has taken proactive measures to prepare for a potential tsunami. Given the historical precedence of tsunamis affecting Israel, authorities have been alerted to the possibility that seismic activity in Greece may pose a risk to their coastline. Israel’s government has been advised to ready its emergency services due to the anticipated two-hour warning period for a tsunami wave emanating from such an earthquake.
In conclusion, the increased seismic activity around Santorini has resulted in the declaration of a state of emergency, significant evacuations, and a heightened state of alert in Israel. Authorities in both regions are mobilizing resources to ensure the safety of their residents. As scientists continue to monitor the situation, the unpredictability of seismic events remains a critical concern for both tourists and locals alike.
Earthquakes are a common natural occurrence in the Aegean region due to geological activity. Santorini, a well-known tourist destination, has faced a significant uptick in seismic events, prompting local authorities to enact emergency measures. The recent series of earthquakes has raised alarms not only for the residents but also for neighboring countries, particularly Israel, due to potential tsunami risks that could follow seismic activities in the region.
The ongoing earthquakes in Santorini have led to a state of emergency and significant evacuations, placing both local residents and tourists at risk. Meanwhile, neighboring Israel is taking precautionary measures against potential tsunami threats in light of the situation. Authorities are closely monitoring seismic activities, with the safety of all individuals in the region as the utmost priority.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
