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Seawater recedes on Mykonos, raising fears of link to Santorini quakes

caution tapes placed to restrict access for tourists as a precaution due to recent seismic activities in Oia village This photograph shows caution tapes placed to restrict access for tourists as a precaution due to recent seismic activities in Oia village on the Greek island of Santorini on February 5, 2025. (AFP Photo)
By Newsroom
Feb 15, 2025 2:17 PM

Recent reports from Greek media indicate growing concerns among residents of the Aegean islands, including Mykonos, after several meters of seawater receded, sparking fears of a potential connection to the recent seismic activity in the Aegean Sea near Santorini.

While some residents are concerned that this may be linked to earthquakes, experts argue that the phenomenon is more likely due to the moon’s position rather than seismic movements.

Since Jan. 28, seismic activity has continued to affect various islands in Greece, prompting the authorities to implement heightened emergency measures.

Following the declaration of a state of emergency on the Santorini, Amorgos, and Anafi islands, Ios Island has also been added to the list of affected areas.

Aerial view of the volcanic islet with the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos in the bay of Amoudi, Santorini, Greece.
Aerial drone photo of picturesque volcanic islet with black rocks and the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos in the bay of Amoudi beneath the iconic village of Oia, Santorini, Greece. Seawater receded in Mykonos, according to reports in Greek media. (Adobe Stock Photo)

The state of emergency on Ios Island, as announced by Greek Civil Protection Secretary Vasilis Papayeorgiu, will remain in effect until March 14.

As a result of the increasing seismic activity, educational institutions on the Santorini, Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi islands will remain closed until Feb. 17.

The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with experts warning that the seismic movements may persist in the coming days.

Seawater recedes on Mykonos, raising fears of link to Santorini quakes
An infographic titled “Santorini Island shaken by earthquakes” created in Ankara, Turkiye on February 10, 2025. ( Mehmet Yaren Bozğun – Anadolu Agency )

Schools remain closed in four Greek islands

Greek authorities extended school closures on February 9 to four islands by one week after recent seismic activity in the region, according to public broadcaster ERT.

A committee of officials and experts decided to prolong closures on the islands of Santorini, Ios, Anafi, and Amorgos as a precautionary measure.

Schools on the islands had initially closed on Feb. 3 due to seismic activity.

Authorities have canceled all public events and advised residents to avoid gathering in enclosed spaces as a precaution against a potential major earthquake.

Search and rescue teams, drones, and generators have been dispatched to affected areas to bolster emergency preparedness.

Last Updated:  Feb 15, 2025 4:31 PM