Residents and tourists begin fleeing Santorini: Landslides occurring in the region

More than 400 earthquakes have been recorded on the Greek tourist island of Santorini and the surrounding Cyclades since Saturday. Following the tremors, landslides have been observed on the island, and residents have begun to leave due to safety concerns.

Although authorities have stated that the earthquakes are not linked to volcanic activity, many people spent the night in open areas due to fears of a major earthquake. While there is congestion at the Port of Santorini and terminals, some residents have left the island to travel to the capital, Athens.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking during a summit he attended in Belgium, stated, 'We are going through an intense period. It is important for the public to remain calm.'

Professor Manolis Skordilis from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki stated the following in an interview with state television:

'A 20-kilometer-long fault line has become active. This fault caused a 7.3-magnitude earthquake in 1956.'

The Greek Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has banned access to Ammoudi, Armeni, and the Old Port of Fira in Santorini due to the risk of landslides. Additionally, education in schools in the region has been suspended until Friday.

The Seismic Risk Assessment Committee will hold a meeting soon to evaluate the situation. This seismic activity in Santorini and the surrounding islands has caused concern among the local population and authorities.

News Source : İHA