The seismic crisis in the Cyclades intensified overnight as 46 new earthquakes were recorded between midnight and 6:00 AM on Wednesday.
The latest tremors, including two significant quakes measuring 4.0 and 4.3 in magnitude, have added to the uncertainty in the region, prompting further evacuations and emergency measures.
The first of these two major earthquakes struck at 4:16 AM, measuring 4.0 on the Richter scale, with its epicentre 18 km southwest of Arkesini, Amorgos, at a depth of 10.8 km. Just five minutes later, a stronger 4.3-magnitude quake followed, centered 17 km northeast of the island, at a depth of 11.8 km. These new tremors bring the total number of recorded earthquakes in recent days to over 2,500.
Escalating Seismic Activity Raises Alarm
Seismologists are expressing growing concern over the pattern of seismic activity, with some suggesting it could be a prelude to a larger earthquake.
“The risk of a major earthquake in this area cannot be ruled out. There is a possibility that we could see a tremor reaching 6.0 or higher,” warned Professor of Geophysics Costas Papazachos. Other experts, including Professor Dimitris Papanikolaou, emphasize that the region’s fault system could potentially produce a quake as strong as 6.5.
Despite this, some scientists believe that a moderate earthquake in the range of 5.2 to 5.3 could help relieve seismic stress and prevent a larger event. “A slightly stronger tremor could help release energy more gradually,” said OASP President Efthimios Lekkas.
Impact on Amorgos and Evacuations from Santorini
Amorgos has also been significantly impacted, with many residents stating they have never experienced such continuous tremors before. “This is something completely new for us. There is growing concern, especially after the 5.0-magnitude earthquakes,” said Konstantinos Grispos, Deputy Mayor of Amorgos Civil Protection.
In Santorini, the situation remains critical. As the earthquakes persist for a fifth consecutive day, thousands continue to flee. The total number of evacuees has now exceeded 11,000, with ferry and airline services working at capacity to facilitate departures. Most businesses on the island remain closed, and the local economy is feeling the strain.
Government Response and Emergency Operations
In light of the latest developments, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called for another emergency meeting at 1:00 PM today at the Ministry of Civil Protection to reassess the situation and coordinate new response measures.
Emergency services remain on high alert, with additional resources deployed to support affected areas. The South Aegean Regional Fire Brigade has reinforced its presence, with 51 firefighters, nine vehicles, and a Mobile Operational Center now stationed on Santorini. A team of the 1st EMAK, including a rescue dog and specialized drone units, has also been dispatched. Similar reinforcements have been sent to Amorgos, Ios, Astypalaia, and Anafi, while a helicopter remains on standby in Naxos for potential rescue missions.
No Volcanic Activation Detected
Despite growing concerns, volcanologists have reiterated that there are no signs of volcanic activation in the Kameni or Kolumbos underwater volcanoes. “There is no indication of volcanic activity at this time,” confirmed volcanologist George Vougioukalakis.
Authorities and experts continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents and visitors to remain cautious as the seismic sequence unfolds. Further updates will follow as new developments emerge.