An earthquake swarm near the island of Santorini in Greece has been gradually declining, according to Greek scientists monitoring the phenomenon. The undersea shocks, occurring sometimes just minutes apart, prompted thousands of residents and workers to evacuate the renowned clifftop towns of Santorini, as well as the nearby islands of Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi. As a result, schools on these islands have remained closed for a fourth week, with various restrictions still in place. However, scientists have noted a positive trend in the diminishing earthquake activity.
The Interdisciplinary Committee for Risk and Crisis Management at the University of Athens reported that seismic activity has been decreasing both in terms of the daily number of recorded earthquakes and their maximum magnitudes. The earthquakes have been concentrated in a specific focal area, with no new micro-seismic surges observed since February 15. Between January 26 and February 22, over 20,000 earthquakes of magnitude 1 or higher were recorded.
These earthquakes, attributed to natural tectonic processes and magma movements beneath the seabed, have reached magnitudes of up to 5.3 but have caused only minor damage. Santorini Mayor Nikos Zorzos mentioned that several thousand people have returned to the island since late last week. He has called on government authorities to provide additional assistance in managing risks, such as controlling rockfalls and installing or repairing hillslope fencing.
