New Delhi: Santorini, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece has been placed under a state of emergency by the government after hundreds of undersea earthquakes shook the island for nearly a week. The earthquakes have forced over 10,000 residents and workers to evacuate. The earthquakes began on January 31 and the state of emergency was imposed after a tremor of 5.2 magnitude, the most powerful among the series of tremors to hit the island this week, struck Santorini late on February 5, 2025. The tremors have increased concerns among seismologists and authorities.
The epicenters of the earthquakes are concentrated between the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios. The tremors have forced thousands of residents and seasonal workers to evacuate the island and moved to the Greek mainland by ferry. The state of emergency will remain in effect till March 3 so that authorities get enough time to address the aftermath and provide necessary assistance.
Santorini: A popular tourist spot in Greece
Santorini is one of the most popular tourist spots in Greece due to its breathtaking beauty. The Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea is located at about 200 km southeast from the mainland. The total land area of the island is 91 sq km and it is part of the Thira regional unit. Notably, in the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, Santorini is the most active volcanic centre. Around 3,600 years ago, the Minoan eruption, one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history struck Santorini, wreaking havoc in the island.
Why is Santorini a renowned tourist place?
In recent years, the tourism of Santorini has expanded which has boosted its economy and population. Many magazines and travel sites have ranked Santorini as the top island to visit including the likes of the BBC and the Travel+Leisure Magazine. Every year, around 2 millions tourists visit the island which is focusing on sustainable development and the promotion of special forms of tourism.
The white houses on the island are a major attraction, providing a mesmerizing view to the tourists. In the last few years, the island has become popular among Asian couples who go there to have pre-wedding photos taken against the backdrop of the landscape. Also, the island has castles, small coastal watchtowers and a breathtaking view of the sea, which have made Santorini a hotspot for travelers in the age of Instagram.
A 5.2 magnitude earthquake, the strongest in a week-long series, has prompted a state of emergency in Santorini, Greece. Over 10,000 residents and tourists have evacuated the island due to hundreds of undersea tremors. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
