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Santorini, Greece, has been hit by a strong 5.3 magnitude earthquake, making it the most powerful tremor recorded in the region during the ongoing seismic crisis. The earthquake struck on Monday evening with a shallow depth of 17km (10.6 miles), causing tremors to be felt as far as Athens.
Rising Concern Over Santorini Greece Earthquakes
The island has been experiencing frequent earthquakes since January 2025, with more than 12,800 tremors detected by the Seismological Laboratory of the University of Athens. On Sunday evening, a 5.0 magnitude earthquake occurred between Santorini and the neighboring island of Amorgos, further alarming residents.
Authorities and experts are closely monitoring the situation, as there is still a risk of a major earthquake. Landslides have already been reported in various parts of Santorini due to the relentless shaking. Seismologists initially hoped that the intensity of the quakes would decrease, but recent activity suggests the situation is worsening.
Measures and Safety Concerns for Santorini Greece Earthquakes
A state of emergency remains in place on Santorini until at least March 3, 2025. More than 11,000 people have evacuated the island due to safety concerns. Schools on Santorini, Amorgos, and other nearby islands will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, a team from the Special Disaster Response Unit has been dispatched to Amorgos from Patras with a specialized earthquake rescue vehicle. Technical teams are also expected to inspect the electricity network to ensure safety amid ongoing tremors.
Cruise Ship Changes Route Amid Santorini Earthquake Crisis
The cruise ship Viking Star, carrying 893 passengers and 470 crew members, was scheduled to dock in Santorini but altered its course due to safety concerns. Instead, the ship arrived at the port of Souda in Crete early on Monday morning. Officials cited concerns over overcrowding at the Santorini cable car during seismic activity as a primary reason for the route change.
What Experts Are Saying ?
Seismologists, including Professor Kostas Papazachos from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, have acknowledged that the possibility of a major earthquake cannot be ruled out. While they hope for a gradual decrease in activity, they warn that it may take several weeks before any improvement is seen.
Greece, known for its frequent seismic activity, has puzzled scientists with the current "clusters" of earthquakes in Santorini. Unlike typical seismic patterns, these tremors have not been linked to a major shock. While Santorini is part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, authorities have clarified that the recent quakes are due to tectonic movements, not volcanic activity.
Is the Crisis Nearing an End?
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the situation stabilizes or worsens. For now, residents and tourists are urged to stay cautious, follow safety protocols, and avoid dangerous areas, especially cliffs where landslides have been reported. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a gradual de-escalation of seismic activity in Santorini, Greece.
