Image Source: PhileNews

A series of earthquakes have rattled the Aegean Sea, affecting Greek islands, including Santorini. Over 9,000 residents and tourists have evacuated the island due to increased seismic activity. The quakes, which have been frequent and unusual, are not linked to the Santorini volcano. Local authorities have closed schools and advised people to avoid large gatherings and abandoned buildings. Emergency transport has been arranged to help with evacuations. No damage has been reported, but the situation is being closely monitored by seismologists. 

Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Triggers Precautionary Measures

On February 4, 2025, a magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck near the island of Santorini in Greece, with its epicenter located at a depth of 10 km at coordinates 36.6545°N, 25.6596°E. The earthquake occurred at 09:09 UTC (11:09 local time). Although classified as a moderate tremor, the quake's occurrence is part of a larger sequence of seismic activity that has affected the region in recent days. Authorities have responded with precautionary measures, including the evacuation of thousands from the island, though no significant damage has been reported as of the latest updates.

Image Source: PhileNews

Evacuations and Travel Disruptions

The island’s population of approximately 15,500 has seen significant movement in the wake of the ongoing seismic events. Since Sunday, February 2, about 6,000 people have left Santorini via ferry. The additional departure of around 2,500 to 2,700 passengers is anticipated through emergency flights scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. Aegean Airlines has adjusted its flight schedules to accommodate the increased demand, adding extra flights to Athens. Local authorities have also closed schools for the week and warned residents to avoid areas prone to landslides, including Ammoudi, Armeni, and the Old Port of Fira.

Despite the growing number of evacuations, many of those departing the island are local residents, as the timing falls outside the peak tourist season. With tourism significantly lower in February, fewer visitors are impacted. The recent tremors, though concerning, are reported to be largely contained in terms of humanitarian impact, with the region’s coping capacity rated at 2.5 on the INFORM index, indicating a relatively low level of vulnerability.

Image Source: AFP

Ongoing Seismic Activity in the Region

The frequency of tremors in the region has raised concerns about the potential for continued seismic activity over the coming weeks. Since Sunday, over 300 earthquakes have been recorded in the vicinity of Santorini, with the largest measuring 4.7. Although experts suggest the activity is related to tectonic movements rather than volcanic eruptions, the island’s location along the Hellenic Volcanic Arc—an area known for its past volcanic activity—remains a point of interest for seismologists.

In response to the ongoing situation, Greek authorities have taken a series of preventive actions. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and rescue teams are stationed throughout the island. Authorities have also issued recommendations to residents to avoid certain areas, including coastal regions at risk of landslides. No major material damage has been reported so far, but the island remains on alert as seismologists continue to monitor the situation.

While Santorini is a popular tourist destination, its geological activity has been a long-standing consideration for both locals and visitors. The island’s last major volcanic eruption occurred in 1950, and the current seismic events are seen as a natural continuation of the tectonic activity in the region. Further updates on the situation are expected as authorities and seismologists work to assess the ongoing tremors and their potential impact on the area.