Türkiye installs sirens to warn of tsunami risk as Santorini earthquakes continue

Authorities in Türkiye took action after continued seismic activity near Greece’s Santorini Island.

The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) deployed mobile siren systems in Izmir, Aydin, and Mugla to warn coastal residents of possible tsunamis and emergencies.

Seismic activity in the Aegean and the risks associated with earthquakes and tsunamis

Since February 7, the Aegean Sea has experienced 761 earthquakes exceeding magnitude 3. The frequent tremors raised concerns about a major earthquake, tsunami, or volcanic eruption on Santorini.

AFAD warned that fine volcanic ash from an eruption could spread through the wind, while a powerful earthquake could generate a tsunami affecting Türkiye’s coastline.

AFAD officials held a “Santorini Island Seismic Activity and Risk Assessment Meeting” to analyze the potential threats. After the meeting, they decided to set up early warning systems along the Aegean coast.

AFAD installs mobile sirens in Izmir, Aydin, and Mugla to warn residents of possible emergencies

AFAD placed mobile sirens in Izmir’s Seferihisar district at Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Square. Additional sirens started operating in Aydin’s Didim and Mugla’s Datca. Officials confirmed that the sirens will alert residents in case of a tsunami or another emergency requiring immediate action.

In addition to the sirens, AFAD launched an SMS alert system to notify residents of potential dangers. Authorities also sent personnel and equipment from AFAD offices in Ankara, Antalya, Bursa, Diyarbakir, Sivas, and Samsun to support emergency preparedness efforts in Izmir, Aydin, and Mugla.

Seismologists evaluate earthquake risks, potential for tsunami hitting Türkiye’s coastline

Professor Senol Hakan Kutoglu from Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University addressed concerns about the situation. “The expansion in Santorini’s crater does not mean an eruption is imminent,” he said.

However, he warned that an earthquake stronger than magnitude 8 could trigger a tsunami with waves between 3 and 5 meters along Türkiye’s coastline. Kutoglu clarified that the Santorini earthquakes do not impact the region’s inland fault lines.

Greek seismologist Akis Tselentis expressed doubts about the seismic activity subsiding anytime soon. “The sequence will last for months,” he said. He compared it to the Arkalochori earthquake in Crete, where the buildup continued for four months before a 6.0-magnitude quake struck.

Geologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos examined the pattern of recent tremors. “There is no sign that volcanic activity is increasing,” he stated. He explained that recent earthquakes could signal the start of an aftershock sequence rather than foreshadowing a stronger earthquake.

Santorini tourism adapts as cruise ship diverts to Souda due to earthquake concerns

The seismic activity forced changes to travel plans for tourists visiting Santorini. The cruise ship Viking Star, which planned to dock on the island, rerouted to Souda for safety reasons. The ship carried 893 passengers, mainly from the United States, along with 470 crew members.

Greek officials met to discuss tourism concerns and strategies to manage the situation. Andreas Fiorentinos, secretary general of the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT), reassured stakeholders.

“Greece has the infrastructure and expertise to handle crises,” he said. “Santorini remains a top destination, and we are working to limit any negative impact on tourism.”

Officials emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to maintain stability in the tourism industry. They confirmed that measures will continue to ensure that Santorini welcomes visitors safely when the new travel season begins.

Authorities in both Türkiye and Greece are closely monitoring the situation. Scientists are analyzing data to predict what may happen next, while emergency teams remain on standby to respond to any developments.