A series of frequent earthquakes, ranging between magnitudes 3 and 5, have been shaking Santorini, Greece, since the weekend. The tremors have prompted local and regional authorities to implement emergency measures, anticipating the possibility of a larger quake. Rescue teams, equipped with sniffer dogs and drones, have been deployed on the island as a precaution, and several coastal areas have been closed off. Additionally, schools in Santorini and other Cyclades islands have been shuttered, and public events have been banned.
Thousands of residents and tourists have opted to leave Santorini, prompted by fear of the ongoing seismic activity, leading ferry lines and airlines to increase their schedules. However, rough weather has disrupted some ferry services. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was scheduled to attend an emergency meeting at the Civil Protection Ministry in Athens to address the situation.
The earthquakes have originated from beneath the seabed between Santorini and the nearby island of Amorgos, with reports of minor rockslides and cracks in older buildings but no significant injuries or damage. While Greece is known for its seismic activity, the frequency of the current tremors is uncommon. Experts note that while predicting earthquakes is not possible, the current events might be part of an ongoing earthquake swarm.
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Previously, authorities noted heightened volcanic activity within Santorini's caldera; however, this is believed to be unrelated to the earthquake activity. Scientists have stated that the seismic events are unlikely to activate the area's volcanoes. In preparation for potential disruptions, Southeast Aegean regional Gov. Giorgos Hatzimarkos said the country's electricity provider had sent staff and equipment to the island to prepare contingency plans in case of power cuts. Additionally, Digital Governance Deputy Minister Konstantinos Kyranakis said the government was working with telecommunications providers to ensure backup plans in case of a network outage in the area. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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