Santorini faces continued earthquake risks as schools set to reopen amid seismic decline
A small group of teenagers and children check their tablets and smartphones while sitting in the cafeteria of a summer camp run by the Greek city, February 18, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Although seismic fluctuations in the Aegean Sea between Santorini and Amorgos have decreased, occasional high-intensity earthquakes continue to cause concern.
However, the data from the Permanent Scientific Committee for Seismic Hazard Assessment and the Committee for Monitoring the Greek Volcanic Arc, gathered on Thursday, February 27, 2025, indicates that the situation in Santorini remains stable.
While the Committee advises that precautionary measures continue, it made a controversial decision to recommend the reopening of schools in Santorini on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
Although the earthquake activity has decreased, authorities emphasized the need for schools to continue implementing seismic safety protocols. Despite the significant reduction in the risk of stronger tremors, it has not been eliminated, as highlighted by the committee.
Mandatory return to island following decision
Following the committee’s decision, mandatory returns to the island began, particularly from March 1, 2025. Those returning to Santorini expressed their dissatisfaction with the committee’s recommendation and voiced their concerns about the premature reopening of schools.
They pointed out the irony in the committee’s announcement, which emphasized the need for both the reopening of schools and continued seismic safety measures.
Is seismic activity declining?
The meeting was attended by government officials, including Minister of Climate Crisis and Disaster Management Vassilis Kikilias and Deputy Minister Evangelos Tournas. Experts confirmed that seismic activity had significantly decreased over the past two weeks and is now at low levels.
During this period of uncertainty, the committees issued several safety guidelines to ensure public safety. These include:
- Avoid approaching abandoned buildings.
- Refrain from visiting or staying at Ammoudi, Armeni, Korfu, and Fira Old Port.
- Remove hazardous structural elements in buildings (such as heavy hanging objects, and suspended ceilings) and drain swimming pools.
- Choose safe routes in urban and district roads, especially in areas with steep slopes and potential landslides.
- In the event of a strong seismic tremor, move away from coastal areas.
Efforts to reduce landslide risk in Santorini continue
The committees also reviewed the study titled “Operational Actions to Reduce Landslide Risks in the Santorini Volcanic Complex Caldera” and recommended the implementation of appropriate actions to reduce the landslide risk in the region.
Next steps and ongoing monitoring
The committees will convene again on Friday, March 7, to assess the situation.
Citizens can find more information on seismic safety by visiting the websites of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization and the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection.
