Santorini Shaken by 200+ Earthquakes, Schools Closed

The iconic Greek island of Santorini—known for its stunning views and as a favorite spot for Instagram lovers—is currently dealing with a series of earthquakes. Over the past four days, more than 200 tremors have shaken the area, with the strongest hitting a magnitude of 4.9.

In response, authorities have decided to shut down schools on Santorini, as well as nearby islands like Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi. They’re also advising people to steer clear of large indoor gatherings to stay safe. The decision came after an emergency meeting, and schools will remain closed until Friday.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reassured residents, urging them to stay calm while experts monitor the situation. “We’re dealing with a very intense geological phenomenon,” he said during a press briefing.

Though these quakes are considered minor, the frequent shaking has understandably rattled nerves. To help those who want to leave, Aegean Airlines has added extra flights to and from Santorini. However, local officials insist it’s not a mass exodus—most of the people leaving are seasonal workers, not permanent residents.

Santorini sits on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a hotspot for seismic activity. The island is no stranger to earthquakes, but its beauty continues to draw over 3.4 million visitors annually. Known for its crescent-shaped caldera and breathtaking scenery, it’s often called Greece’s “Instagram island.”

While the current tremors are linked to tectonic activity, experts say there’s no sign of volcanic eruptions at this time. Still, locals and tourists alike are keeping a close eye on the situation as the ground continues to shake.

Santorini Shaken by 200+ Earthquakes, Schools Closed
https://www.99newz.com/posts/santorini-earthquakes-schools-closed-4269
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99newz.com
Published at
2024-12-16
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CC BY-NC-SA 4.0