In the Aegean Sea, the cyclades form an archipelago renowned for its volcanic landscapes and its recurring seismic activity. But for three weeks, the earth has been shaking without respite: more than 19,000 tremors have been recorded, a phenomenon of rare intensity which sows concern about these prized islands of tourists. In Amorgos and Santorini, the inhabitants adapt to this unusual instability, while scientists try to understand their origin. Is it a simple tectonic readjustment or the warning sign of a more serious event?
A seismic swarm of an unprecedented scale
In the seismic world, a “swarm” designates a series of small earthquakes that occur over a short period, without a major earthquake preceded or follow them. This type of seismic activity is often observed in tectonically active areas, but rarely with such intensity.
According to the Sismology Laboratory of the University of Athens, relayed by Geo, more than 19,000 tremors were identified in three weeks around Amorgos and Santorini, with magnitudes oscillating mainly between 3 and 4. Strong, recorded on February 10, reached a magnitude of 5.3, and was felt to Athens.
This phenomenon intrigues scientists, because it does not seem directly linked to a volcanic activity. Santorini is based on a volcanic caldera known for its underwater activity, but according to experts, the statements indicate a stability of the volcano. Researchers therefore favor the hypothesis of a readjustment of local tectonic faults.
Under tension
In the Cyclades archipelago, anxiety grows. In Amorgos, an usually peaceful island, the inhabitants live to the rhythm of the tremors. Faced with this situation, the authorities ordered the closure of schools on several islands, including Santorini, Amorgos and iOS, according to Le Figaro. More than 250 students are now taking their distance courses, a situation that recalls the containment periods linked to the COVVI-19.
The concern does not only concern the inhabitants. In Santorini, nearly 11,000 residents and seasonal workers have left the island in recent weeks, fearing an aggravation of the situation. This wave of departures, unprecedented for decades, testifies to the fear that has settled in the region.
Increased scientific monitoring
Faced with the scale of the phenomenon, the researchers intensified their surveillance. Teams of seismologists have deployed new sensors on Amorgos and Santorini and analyze the underwater faults off the island of Anydros, where the main epicenter of the tremors would be located.
The objective is to understand why these earthquakes occur in series and to determine if a more important event could occur. For the moment, no sign suggests a major earthquake, but the evolution of the situation remains uncertain.
Scientists recall that Greece is one of the countries most exposed to earthquakes in Europe. In 1956, an earthquake of magnitude 7.5 had caused a tsunami 20 meters high, ravaging amorgos and causing dozens of deaths, according to the tourist echo. Although the current context is different, these previous ones recall that caution remains in order.
What consequences for the Cyclades archipelago?
If these tremors have not caused major damage, they already have a considerable economic impact. In Santorini, a flagship destination for tourism in Greece, the cancellations of reservations are increasing.
In 2023, Santorini had hosted 3.4 million visitors, generating almost 6 billion euros in income, or 2.5% of Greek GDP. A drop in tourism could have repercussions throughout the local economy, largely dependent on this activity.
In Amorgos, where the summer season attracts up to 100,000 tourists per year, uncertainty grows. If earthquakes persist, vacationers could choose other destinations, having a blow to local shops.
For the time being, seismic activity seems to slowly slow down, but the experts remain cautious. The next few weeks will be crucial to determine whether this seismic swarm is only a passenger episode or the sign of a deeper tectonic reorganization.
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
