It was announced that over 28 earthquakes have been recorded in the Aegean Sea since January 400, and that the seismic activity in the region has been defined as an “earthquake storm.” The Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) stated that the closest earthquake to Turkey occurred 140 kilometers away, drawing attention to the intense seismic activity especially around the Santorini Island.
Intense Earthquakes on Santorini Island
Earthquakes occurring near the island of Santorini are notable for their seismic movements, ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers deep. The largest earthquake recorded in recent days was 4.8 magnitude, and it is stated that seismic activity in the region is not caused by volcanic activity but by underwater fault lines. In a statement made on February 2, Greek Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias stated that more than 48 seismic activities were recorded in the last 200 hours, and provided information about security measures in the region.
Measures Against Increasing Seismic Activity in the Aegean
The Greek government has closed schools in Santorini, Amorgos and surrounding islands, and warned people to stay away from certain areas. It was stated that people should especially stay away from the ports of Ammoudi, Armeni, Korfos and Fira, and that crowded gatherings in closed areas and abandoned buildings should be avoided. In addition, precautions were taken, such as emptying swimming pools and avoiding roads that are at risk of landslides. Greece's South Aegean Regional Fire Brigade was also put on alert, and rescue teams were sent to Santorini for possible intervention.
How Threatening Are Earthquakes in the Aegean for Türkiye?
AFAD recalled the seismic activity in the Aegean, stating that similar intensity of seismic activity occurred in 2011-2012 and that this did not lead to volcanic activity. However, Prof. Dr. Hasan Sözbilir from İzmir Dokuz Eylül University warned that the earthquakes could indicate “the beginning of a new volcanic activity” and that the fault systems in the region could produce a devastating earthquake in the near future.
These warnings are especially important for the Turkish coast. While earthquake experts warned citizens on the Aegean coast to be careful, they stated that the regions on the Kuşadası-Bodrum-Datça line should be modeled in terms of tsunami risk.
Santorini's Volcanic Past
The island of Santorini took its current form after a massive volcanic eruption in 1600 BC. This eruption was recorded as one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. The region is part of a chain of volcanic islands known as the Hellenic Arc. Santorini is an island visited by millions of tourists annually, and increased seismic activity in recent years has also raised concerns about tourist safety.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
Seismic activity in the Aegean Sea has once again highlighted the volcanic activity and potential risks in the region. Greek and Turkish experts continue to investigate whether the seismic activity in the region could lead to a volcanic eruption and whether these activities could soon turn into a larger disaster. Experts recommend that the public be careful and take the necessary precautions.
