Santorini to Reopen to Visitors as Schools Resume After Earthquake Swarm

According to the Greek Minister of Tourism, after weeks of seismic tremors, Santorini is set to welcome visitors once again this summer.

Despite ongoing minor aftershocks, schools on Santorini and the neighboring islands of Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos reopened on March 4, signaling a return to normalcy.

The earthquake swarm that began in late January and continued into February has finally subsided, allowing residents and businesses to resume regular activities. Although minor tremors are still being recorded, experts have confirmed that the intensity and frequency of seismic events have significantly decreased.

Public buildings across the island were inspected and found structurally sound, with enhanced safety measures remaining. These precautions will continue to ensure the safety of both locals and visitors.

During the crisis, Santorini’s local authorities declared a state of emergency, as over 20,000 earthquakes were recorded between January and February. The tremors, caused by tectonic and magma shifts beneath the seabed, forced many locals to evacuate. However, authorities are now confident that the situation is stabilizing.

Santorini’s tourism industry, which thrives on its iconic volcanic caldera, will remain open to visitors as usual. Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni reassured travelers at a recent international tourism exhibition in Berlin, stating that safety measures will be implemented where necessary.

Despite its active volcanic history—the last significant eruption occurred in 1950—Santorini remains one of Greece’s top tourist destinations. The island is part of a volcanic arc, with underwater volcanoes like Nea Kameni and Kolumbo dotting its coastline.

Additionally, an international expedition, “HYDROMOX,” funded by the British government, is currently underway to further study the volcanic activity surrounding Santorini. The project, implemented through the National Oceanography Center, aims to enhance understanding of the underwater volcanic system.

Santorini is now gearing up for a safe and vibrant tourist season, with safety at the forefront of the island’s recovery.

Source: pagenews.gr