Hundreds of tourists flee Santorini as earthquake activity continues

Residents and tourists are evacuating the Greek island of Santorini after increased seismic activity in recent days, with airlines and ferry operators arranging additional transport to facilitate departures.

Frequent earthquakes recorded in Santorini and the surrounding underwater region have caused growing concern among local residents, prompting heightened movement of workers and visitors off the island.

Airlines and maritime companies have scheduled emergency flights and additional ferry routes to accommodate the increased demand, particularly for workers in tourism and construction sectors, as well as visitors currently on the island.

Local residents are closely monitoring developments, with seismologists expected to provide updated assessments of the ongoing seismic activity.

Despite concerns, no material damage has been reported, and daily life on the island continues with relative normality.

With seismologists estimating that the intense seismic activity could take days or weeks to abate, people were advised to stay out of coastal areas due to the risk of landslides, and avoid indoor gatherings.

Some hotels started emptying their pools as they were told that the water load made buildings more vulnerable.

Greece is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in Europe as it sits at the boundary of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates whose constant interaction prompts frequent quakes.

Santorini took its current shape following one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, around 1600 BC. The last eruption in the area occurred in 1950.