Mass Exodus in Santorini as Hundreds of Quakes Rattle the Island

The picturesque island of Santorini, often called the “Instagram Island” for its stunning views, is now a scene of chaos as hundreds of earthquakes have forced thousands to flee. Over 6,000 people have left the island in recent days, according to reports, with many scrambling to catch ferries to Athens after a series of powerful tremors.

Since last weekend, more than 550 quakes have rattled the Aegean Sea, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 4.9. Early Tuesday, a 4.8 tremor struck, adding to the growing unease. Experts warn that the seismic activity could persist for days or even weeks, leaving residents and authorities on edge.

“The whole island has emptied. Nobody works now. Everything is closed,” said Dori, an 18-year-old resident, describing the sudden exodus. Julian Sinanaj, a 35-year-old long-time resident, told reporters, “What’s happening now on the island is incredible. Nobody expected this.”

Santorini, known for its iconic caldera formed by a massive volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago, is no stranger to quakes. However, this level of constant shaking is unusual. Authorities have urged residents to stay calm while arranging additional flights and ferry services to help people reach the mainland safely. Schools remain closed, and large indoor gatherings are being discouraged.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the situation as a “very intense geological phenomenon.” With the island’s 20,000 permanent residents now significantly reduced, the once-bustling tourist hotspot feels eerily quiet.

This isn’t the first time Santor

Mass Exodus in Santorini as Hundreds of Quakes Rattle the Island
https://www.99newz.com/posts/santorini-earthquake-exodus-4266
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99newz.com
Published at
2024-12-16
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