A state of emergency has been declared on Santorini following a 5.2 magnitude earthquake, causing extensive evacuations. Over 11,000 people have left the island, which is struggling under continuous seismic activity. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for potential tsunami threats due to the tremors, with government officials mobilizing emergency services to address possible impacts.
The Greek island of Santorini, a prime tourist destination, has declared a state of emergency following a significant earthquake of 5.2 magnitude that struck on Wednesday evening. This seismic event, among a series of unprecedented tremors, has disrupted daily life on the island. The Athens Geodynamic Institute reported over seven aftershocks of 4.0 magnitude or greater early Thursday morning.
The Greek Civil Protection Ministry has instituted the state of emergency until March 3, aiming to facilitate recovery efforts. With worsening conditions, hundreds have already evacuated the island, leading to approximately 11,000 persons departing via air, as ferry services are suspended due to hazardous seas. Santorini, known for its breathtaking scenery, typically attracts over 3.4 million visitors annually and has about 20,000 permanent residents.
Experts remain concerned as the sequence of seismic activities has puzzled scientists regarding its potential duration. Research director Athanassios Ganas indicated that while tremor intensity is decreasing, stabilization has not yet been achieved. His colleague, deputy director Vassilis Karastathis, mentioned, “We’re at the halfway point.” Since January 26, over 6,000 seismic events have been registered near Santorini and neighboring islands.
In light of the earthquakes, Greece’s government has activated its entire state response apparatus to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Meanwhile, Israel’s National Security Council has expressed concern over a potential tsunami following the earthquakes near Santorini. The Council emphasizes the historical precedent of tsunamis impacting Israel, prompting preparations for a possible tsunami wave along their Mediterranean coastline.
Predictive discussions indicate that the Tsunami’s advance could occur within two hours, given the 900-kilometer distance from the tremor epicenter to Israel. Emergency services and government entities have been instructed to ready themselves for any impact from such a calamity.
With the state of emergency in effect and the risk of tsunami being assessed, authorities in both Greece and Israel are mobilizing resources to alleviate potential impacts on their populations. Immediate actions and precautionary measures are paramount as the situation remains fluid and uncertain.
Recent seismic activity around Santorini has raised alarms due to a series of earthquakes that have seriously impacted the island’s infrastructure and safety. The declared state of emergency aims to address growing concerns for residents and the tourism economy, as thousands have been forced to evacuate. The situation reflects not only the geological challenges faced by the region but also the broader implications for nearby areas such as Israel, which is preparing for potential tsunami threats related to the ongoing seismic disturbances. Seismologists and government officials are closely monitoring the events to ensure that measures are in place for both immediate and long-term recovery in the affected areas, highlighting the importance of readiness and proactive disaster management.
In conclusion, the state of emergency declared in Santorini signifies the immediate response to a series of significant earthquakes impacting the island and its residents. As experts continue to study the seismic activity, precautionary measures are being considered in Israel, anticipating the possibility of tsunami effects. Through coordinated efforts, both nations aim to safeguard their populations and mitigate potential consequences of these natural events.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
