The Greek island of Santorini is at increased risk of landslides due to ongoing seismic activity, and Israel is preparing for a possible tsunami triggered by the earthquakes in Greece, the online edition of the "Kathimerini" newspaper reported today, BTA reported.
Over 7,700 earthquakes were registered in the seismic zone between the islands of Santorini and Amorgos in the period from January 26 to February 4, with 6,100 of them having a magnitude above 1, according to data from the seismological laboratory of the University of Athens. More than 1,300 tremors were detected on Tuesday, with the strongest measuring between 4.9 and 5. The tremors shifted northeast on Wednesday, with the strongest quake measuring 5.1, the data showed.
Experts warn that Santorini, with its steep-sided caldera (a volcanic formation formed when the crater collapses inwards), is particularly vulnerable to landslides - a risk that increases with continued seismic activity, the publication notes. Similar events have occurred in the past, with strong earthquakes triggering landslides over the centuries, including in 1507, 1508, 1870, 1926 and 1956. Landslides have often been triggered by seismic activity outside the caldera - in areas such as Crete or Rhodes.
Since January 27, limited landslides have been recorded in areas such as the Red Beach or the Old Port. Authorities are concerned that continued seismic activity could lead to more significant landslides, especially in areas popular with tourists, the Greek media reports.
Civil protection authorities declared a state of emergency on Santorini today, which will remain in force until March 3. This comes after a magnitude 5.2 earthquake - the strongest since the weekend, which was recorded on Wednesday evening, AFP notes.
Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for a potential tsunami as a result of seismic activity in Greece, the "Jerusalem Post" reported today, quoted by the "Kathimerini" newspaper. Yesterday, the deputy head of Israel's National Security Council called an emergency meeting with government agencies to assess the threat. The plans include protecting key infrastructure and preparing evacuation routes. Israel is also preparing to provide humanitarian aid to Greece if a more serious earthquake occurs.