Santorini, one of Greece’s most famous islands, has been shaking for days as hundreds of small earthquakes rattle the region. With more than 200 tremors recorded in just four days—some strong enough to be felt—authorities are taking precautions, closing schools and advising people to stay away from crowded indoor spaces.
The strongest quake so far measured 4.6, and the shaking hasn’t stopped. While these quakes are considered minor, they’ve been frequent enough to make some residents uneasy. Airlines have stepped in to help, with Aegean Airlines adding extra flights for those looking to leave Santorini. However, the island’s mayor, Nikos Zorzos, insists there is no “mass exodus,” noting that most of those departing are seasonal workers rather than full-time residents.
Santorini sits on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a well-known hotspot for earthquakes and volcanic activity. Despite its shaky past, millions of visitors flock to the island every year to soak in its breathtaking views, iconic white-washed buildings, and golden sunsets. The island’s stunning crescent-shaped caldera was formed by a massive volcanic eruption about 3,600 years ago—one of the largest the world has ever seen.
Greece’s Institute of Geodynamics is closely monitoring the situation. According to Vassilis Karasthathis, a leading seismologist, the pattern of quakes suggests normal tectonic activity, not volcanic movement. He pointed out that a similar surge of tremors in 2011 and 2012 didn’t lead to an eruption. In some good news, he also noted that the recent quakes appear to be shifting further away from Santorini, which lowers the risk of serious damage.
Though Santorini has experienced countless tremors over the centuries, one of its most devastating earthquakes struck in 1956. That 7.5-magnitude quake triggered an 80-foot-high tsunami, killing more than 50 people and leaving much of the island in ruins. Fortunately, the current situation seems far less severe.
For now, life goes on in Santorini, with locals and tourists alike keeping an eye on the ground and hoping for calmer days ahead.
