Emergency crews have been mobilized on the volcanic island of Santorini in Greece after a surge in seismic activity raised fears of a potential powerful earthquake. In response, authorities closed schools and enacted precautionary measures across several neighboring Aegean islands, all of which are popular tourist destinations.
Over the past three days, more than 200 undersea earthquakes, some reaching magnitudes up to 4.7, have been recorded in the region. Although experts have stated that the tremors are not linked to Santorini바카라s volcano, they expressed concern over the pattern of seismic activity.
"These measures are precautionary, and authorities will remain vigilant,바카라 said Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias following an emergency government meeting in Athens late Sunday. 바카라We urge citizens to strictly adhere to safety recommendations to minimize risk.바카라
As a result of the heightened seismic activity, schools were closed on the nearby islands of Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios, and residents on Santorini were advised to avoid large indoor gatherings and areas prone to rockslides. Hotels were instructed to drain swimming pools to reduce potential damage in the event of an earthquake.
Fire Service teams, including 26 rescuers and a rescue dog, arrived on Santorini Sunday and set up staging tents next to the island's main hospital. 바카라We arrived last night, a 26-member team of rescuers and one rescue dog,바카라 said Fire Brigadier Ioannis Billias.
Despite the ongoing tremors, many residents and visitors sought safety outdoors or in their cars overnight, as some of the quakes exceeded a magnitude of 4.0. 바카라Many families spent the night in their cars,바카라 Billias added.
Santorini, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning whitewashed villages and dramatic cliffs formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 3,500 years ago, attracts more than 3 million visitors annually.
Prominent Greek seismologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos warned that the increasing frequency and intensity of the tremors could indicate the possibility of a larger event. 바카라All scenarios remain open,바카라 Papadopoulos posted online. 바카라The number of tremors has increased, magnitudes have risen, and epicentres have shifted northeast. While these are tectonic quakes, not volcanic, the risk level has escalated.바카라
In the island바카라s main town of Fira, local authorities have designated safe gathering points in preparation for a potential evacuation. Mayor Nikos Zorzos emphasized that these actions are preventive, urging residents to stay calm.
바카라We are obliged to make preparations. But being prepared for something does not mean it will happen,바카라 Zorzos said during a weekend briefing. 바카라Sometimes, the way the situation is reported may cause exaggerations바카라 so people should stay calm.
