Santorini: New Safety Measures Announced as Seismic Activity Continues

Santorini, Greece.

Seismic activity continues to affect the heart of the Aegean, with the volcanic island of Santorini, as well as Amorgos and Anafi, experiencing frequent tremors.

In response, the municipal authority of Thira on Santorini has updated precautionary measures that have been in place over the past few days.

In an announcement by Iakovos Lignos, Deputy Mayor of Thira responsible for Civil Protection, residents and visitors are advised to adhere to the following directives:

– All educational institutions in the Municipality of Thira, including preschools, elementary, and high schools, will remain closed until Friday, February 7.
– All indoor events and gatherings within the municipality are canceled until the same date.
– The public is advised to avoid the areas of Ammoudi, Armeni, Korfos Thirasias, and the old port at Fira.

Safety instructions for residents and visitors

Citizens are urged to take additional safety precautions:

– Avoid abandoned or structurally weak buildings.
– Use safe routes when traveling through urban centers or rural roads, especially in landslide-prone areas.
– In the event of a strong earthquake, immediately move away from coastal areas.
– Secure non-structural hazards such as suspended ceilings or heavy hanging objects.
– Drain swimming pools immediately to prevent structural strain.
– Limit time spent at Athinios port, except during ship arrivals.

Additionally, all construction and other work activities in high-risk areas within the Municipality of Thira are suspended until Friday, February 7.

One of the municipality’s evacuation plans in case of emergency. Photo source: Municipality of Thira

Thousands depart Santorini amid ongoing tremors

The persistent seismic activity affecting the Cyclades has led to a significant exodus from Santorini. Over 5,000 people have already left the island, with media reports suggesting that up to 9,000 residents and tourists have departed.

Santorini has a population of approximately 15,000, not including temporary or seasonal workers. Since Sunday, an estimated 6,000 people have traveled off the island via ferry. According to Greek Shipowners Association For Passenger Ships (SEEN) President Dionysis Theodoratos, ferry departures remain high, though a gradual decline in passenger numbers has been observed.

On Tuesday, February 4, four ferries departed from Santorini, only two of which were part of the regular schedule. Meanwhile, more than a dozen flights were arranged to accommodate demand for departures to Athens.

Despite concerns, Professor Efthymis Lekkas, President of Greece’s Organization for Anti-Earthquake Planning and Protection (OASP), has reassured residents that there is no reason for panic, stating that “Santorini residents should feel safe”.

Over 770 earthquakes recorded since January 27

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), based in Paris, has reported that more than 770 earthquakes have been recorded in the Aegean since January 27. Initially, the epicenter was near Santorini before shifting between Amorgos and Anafi.

Updated version of our seismic activity maps in the Cyclades Islands, with 771 earthquakes since 27th January, please refer to the Greek authorities for more information, stay safe. pic.twitter.com/6dFp4y3dtU

— EMSC (@LastQuake) February 4, 2025

Between February 1 and 4, 550 tremors were recorded, including more than 40 earthquakes measuring over 4.0 on the Richter scale, with the strongest reaching 4.9 magnitude.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents and visitors to remain cautious and follow official safety guidelines.