Santorini Deserted After 10,000 Earthquakes in Two Weeks

Santorini has been largely deserted due to over 10,000 earthquakes in two weeks, including a significant 5.3 quake. Most residents and tourists have fled, fearing further seismic activity. Older locals express mixed feelings about the quakes, while geologists criticize prior construction decisions. The Greek government has announced temporary support for affected workers to preserve jobs in the tourism-dependent economy.

The Greek island of Santorini, typically bustling with tourists, has become largely deserted due to over 10,000 earthquakes recorded in two weeks. The latest significant quake, measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale, struck the island on Monday, exacerbating fears among residents and leading to the closure of shops, schools, and restaurants. The seismic activity began in late January and is part of an ‘earthquake swarm’ that affects nearby Aegean islands as well.

This recent seismic activity has prompted the evacuation of around 11,000 residents and visitors who fled to the mainland. Tourists remaining on the island have chosen to endure the tremors, with some stating the beauty of the location remains unchanged. Josephi Liu, a tourist from China remarked on the beauty of Santorini, indicating that he was not taken by surprise after being advised about the earthquake risks before his arrival.

Meanwhile, older locals are accustomed to earthquakes but express concern over the frequency and intensity of the current tremors. Retired police officer Panagiotis Hatzigeorgiou noted that the situation feels different, but reassured that residents can still enjoy quiet moments amidst the tremors. Hospitals have initiated emergency drills and set up outdoor tents as a precautionary measure against potential emergencies.

Rockfalls and landslides have posed additional dangers with minor building damages reported. Geology professor Dimitris Papanikolaou criticized recent developments that compromised safety on the island, asserting that construction should have never occurred at such perilous locations due to their vulnerability from seismic activities. He emphasized that this zone remains hazardous as long as earthquakes persist.

In response to the crisis, the Greek government has implemented temporary measures to support workers employed on Santorini. While layoffs are prohibited, businesses are allowed to suspend employees’ contracts until March 3rd, with those affected receiving state compensation. The measures aim to protect jobs within an economy that heavily relies on tourism in the face of ongoing natural threats.

Santorini faces unprecedented seismic activity, resulting in a mass exodus of residents and tourists from the island. The Greek government has taken steps to support the local workforce as businesses struggle amid fears of further earthquakes. Experts voice concerns about the safety of developments on the island, emphasizing the need for stringent safety protocols in such a seismically active region.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk