Turkish Agency Warns of Possible Volcanic Activity Following Aegean Sea Earthquakes

Turkey’s AFAD and MTA report ongoing earthquakes in the Aegean Sea may trigger volcanic activity near Santorini. Over 900 quakes have been recorded, the largest being a magnitude 5.1. The area is closely monitored due to its potential risks, including past tsunamis following eruptions.

The recent seismic activity in the Aegean Sea may potentially activate volcanic activity, according to a report from Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Mineral Research and Exploration General Directorate (MTA). The preliminary assessment highlighted over 900 earthquakes occurring around Santorini Island, which began to escalate from January 28, with the largest quake recorded at a magnitude of 5.1.

Most of these earthquakes are concentrated in the vicinity of the Kolumbo volcano, which features an underwater crater located northeast of Santorini. The earthquakes occurred at depths between 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) and 25 kilometers (15.5 miles), with the nearest quake to Turkey’s coast being 140 kilometers (87 miles) away.

The report indicated that the Santorini volcanic complex is active, noting the last eruption took place in 1950, which was followed by a tsunami that reached Turkey. While the current seismic activity is concerning, a similar episode was recorded from 2011 to 2012 without leading to eruptions, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring.

Volcanic activity could emerge, influenced by various geological factors including eruption intensity and magma interaction with water. The ongoing quakes are situated within the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, an area rich in active volcanoes like Milos, Santorini, and Nisyros, which have erupted multiple times over the last 10,000 years.

Furthermore, the Aegean Subduction Zone, which demarcates the boundary between the Aegean-Anatolian and African Plates, is located south of the volcanic arc. This zone experiences tectonic activity at a rate of 20 millimeters per year, particularly at shallow depths within the Aegean Plate, without evidence of deeper earthquakes accompanying the current activity.

Researchers from AFAD, alongside Turkish scientists, are closely monitoring the seismic activity to gather insights. They advise the public to disregard speculative posts on social media and to rely solely on official communications from authorized institutions.

The seismic events occurring in the Aegean Sea, particularly around Samorini Island, have raised alerts regarding possible volcanic eruptions near the region. The significant geological features and the history of volcanic activity in this area, coupled with recent earthquake swarms, necessitate rigorous monitoring from geological authorities. Understanding the interaction between seismic movements and volcanic activity is essential for assessing risks and ensuring public safety.

In summary, the Turkish authorities have issued warnings about potential volcanic activity in the Aegean Sea due to ongoing seismic activity near Santorini. The report emphasizes the importance of careful monitoring, as past episodes of similar earthquake intensities have not led to eruptions. Public awareness and reliance on official sources are vital in the face of these geological concerns.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com