Amorgos, Greece (February 2, 2025) – A series of earthquakes rattled the Cyclades islands this morning, with Amorgos experiencing at least six tremors. According to the Geodynamic Institute of Athens, the first quake, measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale, struck at 7:15 am local time. Two more tremors, both registering 3.7, followed within a minute of each other at 7:28 and 7:29 am. The epicenter of all three was located in the sea south of Arkesini, Amorgos, at a depth of six to 13 kilometers.
Three additional earthquakes, ranging in magnitude from 3.4 to 3.6, occurred in the same area between 7:43 and 8:05 am.
While the seismic activity has sparked some concern, Santorini Mayor Nikos Zorzos reassured the public in an interview with Open TV’s “Tora Mazi” program. “There’s no significant cause for alarm,” he stated. “The tremors we felt from the fault on the northeastern side of the island reached a maximum of 4.2 on the Richter scale. They were noticeable, but not intensely so.”
Zorzos emphasized that the Santorini volcano is being closely monitored, drawing on experience from previous activity in 2011 and 2012. He added that precautionary measures have been implemented.
The mayor also addressed potential public misconceptions fueled by alarming headlines. He highlighted the normal ground deformation associated with volcanic activity, explaining that slight rises and falls of the island are natural occurrences. “For example, ground deformations are frequent due to the volcano; the island rises or sinks slightly. This is a natural activity,” Zorzos explained. He cautioned against sensationalized reporting, using the example of a headline claiming the island is “swelling like a cake,” which could create unnecessary anxiety without proper context. He emphasized the importance of providing clear explanations, such as clarifying that Thera (Santorini) experiences minor shifts annually, a phenomenon that has been occurring for years.