Santorini Earthquakes Prompt State of Emergency; Israel Braces for Tsunami

Santorini has declared a state of emergency after a 5.2 magnitude earthquake induced numerous tremors, prompting mass evacuations. Approximately 11,000 people have left the island as authorities implement emergency measures. Concurrently, Israel is preparing for the possibility of a tsunami due to the seismic activity, which has a historical precedent in the region.

The Greek island of Santorini, a highly sought-after tourist destination, has declared a state of emergency following a significant earthquake measuring 5.2 in magnitude on Wednesday evening. This seismic event has precipitated a series of tremors that have notably disrupted daily life on the island, according to authoritative sources.

The Athens Geodynamic Institute reported that early Thursday morning alone saw seven tremors exceeding a magnitude of 4.0. In response, the Greek Civil Protection Ministry has maintained the emergency status until March 3, 2024, amid ongoing concerns about the seismic activity affecting the region.

In light of the recent earthquakes, hundreds of residents and tourists have evacuated by air, as ferries have been unable to depart the island due to adverse weather conditions. Approximately 11,000 individuals have reportedly left, which is significant considering Santorini’s population of around 20,000 permanent residents and its annual influx of 3.4 million tourists.

Since late January, the Aegean Sea near Santorini has experienced over 6,000 tremors, sparking scientific interest as experts seek to understand the duration of the seismic activity. Experts from the institute, including Athanassios Ganas and Vassilis Karastathis, indicate that while the intensity of the quakes may be diminishing, it has yet to achieve stability.

Meanwhile, Israel’s National Security Council is proactively preparing for a potential tsunami that could impact its coastline, approximately 900 kilometers away from Santorini. Past tsunamis have struck the region, and officials are wary of the threat posed by waves generated by massive quakes in nearby areas. Authorities have been alerted that the estimated warning time for such a wave could be up to two hours.

Emergency discussions have mandated that preparedness plans be implemented to address the possibility of a tsunami approaching Israel’s nearly 200-kilometer Mediterranean coastline. The situation remains dynamic as Greece mobilizes its resources to ensure safety during this period of uncertainty.

As the seismic activity continues, both Santorini and Israel are on alert, with emergency measures in place to mitigate the effects of potential disasters. The ongoing situation calls for vigilance and cooperation among local and international authorities to safeguard the safety and welfare of affected populations.

The recent earthquakes affecting Santorini are part of a larger pattern of seismic activity in the Aegean Sea, with over 6000 tremors reported in recent weeks. Santorini, known for its stunning landscapes and tourism, has faced disruption as authorities work to ensure safety amid these geological events. Meanwhile, neighboring countries are preparing for possible repercussions, such as tsunamis, that can arise from such seismic disturbances. The potential for significant damage necessitates ongoing monitoring and response strategies.

The declaration of a state of emergency in Santorini underscores the seriousness of the recent earthquakes, which have disrupted both local life and tourism. With thousands evacuated and potential tsunami threats looming for nearby regions, authorities are prioritizing safety and preparedness. The geological developments continue to be monitored, and community resilience will be crucial in navigating these challenges ahead.

Original Source: www.wionews.com