Greek authorities should prepare for a possible major earthquake and volcanic crisis in the Cyclades region, a leading disaster expert warned on Thursday, as the municipality of Thira in Santorini declared a state of emergency.
Professor Konstantinos Synolakis, an expert in natural disasters, said the region had entered an “uncertain phase” with earthquake epicentres being recorded near Anydros island, whilst volcanologists, particularly those abroad, expressed concern about magma potentially moving eastward from Santorini.
“Whilst Santorini typically experiences major eruptions every 17,000 years, this doesn’t necessarily mean such an event is imminent”, Synolakis told state broadcaster ERT, adding that the earthquake swarm’s duration and precise origin remain unclear.
The Civil Protection Authority has declared a state of emergency for the municipality of Thira, effective from February 1 until March 1, to address the ongoing seismic activity’s immediate needs and consequences.
Addressing tsunami concerns, Synolakis said any potential wave would not match the scale of those seen in Indonesia or Japan, though he warned beachgoers could be at risk if they failed to evacuate.
The expert emphasised the importance of proper building construction in seismically active areas, noting that whilst Santorini’s modern buildings offer greater resilience than the unfired brick structures of 1956, non-compliance with building regulations could pose serious risks.
“The presence of magma itself isn’t an immediate cause for concern”, Synolakis said, explaining that it naturally moves towards the surface due to African plate subduction.
He added that if a larger earthquake occurs, aftershocks could continue for an extended period.
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