Recently, Santorini has experienced over 10,000 tremors, leading to widespread evacuations and significant impacts on the local economy. The island’s picturesque landscape has seen closures of shops and schools, and a heightened state of emergency has been declared. The Greek government is providing support for affected businesses as both residents and remaining tourists grapple with the seismic uncertainty.
The once bustling Greek island of Santorini has become a ghost town due to a surge of seismic activity, experiencing over 10,000 tremors within two weeks. The strongest, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake, struck the island recently, prompting many residents to evacuate. Shops and schools have shuttered, and the usual tourist crowds have largely disappeared, leaving only a few brave visitors behind to experience the island in its current state.
Evacuations accelerated as fears of a severe earthquake loomed. Concerns have arisen about the safety of buildings constructed along precarious cliffs, especially given the ongoing seismic threats. Greek authorities declared a state of emergency, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis assuring citizens of government support during this challenging time.
As many as 11,000 residents and tourists have fled to the mainland amidst the tremors. Ferries and flights have increased their services due to the demand from anxious occupants. Despite the danger, some tourists remain optimistic and are choosing to stay, enjoying the stunning landscape with few distractions.
Longtime residents display mixed reactions to the quakes. While some, such as retired police officer Panagiotis Hatzigeorgiou, find them less alarming, they acknowledge the frequency of quakes is unusual. The local medical facilities have prepared for emergencies, practicing evacuation protocols to mitigate risks associated with potential disasters.
Geologist Dimitris Papanikolaou criticized the extensive development on Santorini, arguing it has prioritized tourism over safety and environmental concerns. Many luxury constructions now face the threat of natural disasters, and Professor Papanikolaou emphasizes that areas in seismic zones should not have been developed.
In response to the economic fallout, the Greek government introduced temporary measures to protect jobs and support businesses affected by the seismic events on Santorini. These measures include suspending employment contracts while preserving job numbers and providing compensation for those impacted by recent developments.
In conclusion, Santorini’s idyllic atmosphere has been marred by a significant earthquake swarm, prompting mass evacuations and heightened fears among residents and tourists alike. The ongoing tremors have led to extensive closures and serious concerns regarding the safety of coastal constructions. The Greek government is stepping in to support the local economy, ensuring businesses can weather the ongoing crisis. As residents and visitors navigate this precarious situation, the future of Santorini remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
