Santorini, a popular tourist destination in Greece, has been deserted due to over 10,000 earthquakes occurring in two weeks, including a strong 5.3-magnitude quake. This seismic activity prompted the majority of residents and tourists to flee, leaving the island in a state of emergency. The Greek government is providing support to affected businesses, aiming to protect the local economy and jobs as concerns about safety persist.
Santorini, the iconic Greek island typically bustling with tourists, has suffered from numerous earthquakes, leading to a mass exodus of its residents and visitors. Following the occurrence of over 10,000 tremors in just two weeks, safety concerns surged, prompting businesses to board up and schools to close. Residents have fled the island, with the local population dwindling from 15,000 to approximately 4,000 as fears of a significant earthquake grew.
On late Monday, Santorini experienced its most powerful quake yet, a 5.3-magnitude tremor, leaving scientists uncertain of the potential for more considerable seismic activity. This recent earthquake swarm has affected nearby islands in the Aegean Sea, leading Greek authorities to declare a state of emergency. Authorities assured the public that emergency services were in place to manage the crisis while urging calm amidst the growing concerns.
Tourists remaining on the island, such as Josephi Liu from China, have expressed their admiration for Santorini’s beauty, despite the tremors. Meanwhile, long-term residents like retired police officer Panagiotis Hatzigeorgiou highlighted that although they have experienced earthquakes throughout their lives, the frequency of these recent events is unsettling.
Precautionary measures are being undertaken by local hospitals, which have organized emergency evacuation drills to prepare for potential disaster scenarios. Additionally, reports of landslides and rockfalls have compounded these safety concerns, posing a threat to the structural integrity of buildings on the island. Dimitris Papanikolaou, a geology professor, criticized the construction boom on Santorini, stating it ignored environmental risks.
In response to the crisis, the Greek government has introduced support measures for island businesses reliant on tourism. Employers are permitted to suspend employees’ contracts until early March while retaining the same workforce and are eligible for state compensation. These actions aim to support the economy and help maintain employment as Santorini navigates its current challenges.
In summary, Santorini faces significant challenges due to an alarming increase in seismic activity, which has led to a drastic decrease in its population and a state of emergency. The local government is actively responding to this crisis by implementing measures to safeguard residents and support the economy. Ultimately, the situation in Santorini serves as a reminder of the potential vulnerabilities faced by areas situated on geologically active terrains.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
