There has been an alarming increase in seismic activity off Santorini in the past hours. An earthquake that measured 5.1 on the Richter scale was recorded around 1317CET at a depth of just 10m. Earlier in the day, earthquakes of 4.9 and 4.7 magnitude were recorded. Additionally, there were multiple quakes ranging from 2.6 to 4.3, some in quick succession. In the past hour, there have been several tremors recorded in the same range which indicates high seismic activity.
Greek media are reporting that evacuations have begun on the island of Santorini and other Docadonese islands such as Amorgos, Anafi and Ios.
Over the last 48 hours, more than 200 earthquakes have been recorded between Santorini and Amorgos. On Saturday 85 were recorded, and on Sunday, 78, seven measuring above 4 on the Richter scale.
The quakes were recorded around 150km North of Santorini, a large dormant volcano. Experts have said that the likelihood of a volcanic eruption is remote but an earthquake exceeding 6.0 in magnitude is widely expected. This could cause significant damage and also a possible tsunami, which could even affect the Central Mediterranean.
In an unrelated development, there has been an earthquake in Tunisia registering 4.8 on the Richter scale. This could indicate that seismic activity is also brewing up closer to Malta. The earthquake was only 490 km away from the Maltese archipelago.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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