Turkish Agency Warns of Potential Volcanic Activity Due to Aegean Earthquakes

The Turkish agency warns that increased seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, particularly around Santorini, may signal potential volcanic eruptions. Over 900 earthquakes have occurred since late January, with significant activity noted around the Kolumbo volcano. While past seismic events have not always led to eruptions, ongoing monitoring is essential.

The Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and the Mineral Research and Exploration General Directorate (MTA) have reported that recent seismic activity in the Aegean Sea may lead to volcanic eruptions. Observations indicate that over 900 earthquakes have occurred near Santorini Island since late January, with the largest measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale, and depths ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers.

Most earthquakes are centered around the Kolumbo volcano, located northeast of Santorini, while the closest quake to the Turkish coast was recorded 140 kilometers away. The report notes that Santorini’s volcanic system is active, with its last eruption occurring in 1950 and generating a tsunami that reached Turkey’s shores.

AFAD emphasizes the necessity of closely monitoring both seismic and volcanic activities, as the interplay between tectonic shifts and magma movements can indicate potential eruptions. While the current seismic swarm warrants attention, the report references a similar event lasting over a year from 2011-2012 that did not lead to volcanic activity.

The Aegean region is characterized by numerous active volcanoes due to the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, with the African Plate subducting below the Aegean-Anatolian Plate at a rate of 20 millimeters annually. Earthquake activity in this zone is typically shallow and has not yet triggered deeper seismic events.

The AFAD’s Earthquake Advisory Board and Turkish researchers are actively monitoring the situation and advise the public to rely solely on official communications rather than speculative social media reports.

The Turkish agency’s report highlights a concerning link between seismic activity and potential volcanic eruptions in the Aegean Sea, particularly surrounding Santorini Island. Given the area’s history of volcanic eruptions and seismic swarms, significant attention is warranted on how tectonic movements may influence volcanic activity. Understanding the geological context and monitoring ongoing seismicity is critical to predicting potential hazards, particularly in this tectonically active region.

In summary, ongoing seismic activity in the Aegean Sea poses a potential risk for volcanic eruptions, especially near Santorini. Despite historical precedence showing that not all seismic swarms lead to eruptions, the authorities advocate for monitoring the situation closely. Public awareness and reliance on official updates are crucial as uncertainty remains regarding the interaction of factors that may lead to volcanic activity.

Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com