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The Greek island of Santorini is experiencing a spate of earthquakes. More than 1 tremors were recorded between February 10 and 12, with the strongest one measuring 800, according to The Watchers.
According to the publication, the Greek Red Cross has sent rescue teams, social workers and psychologists to assist residents of the affected region. They will give priority to psychological support to the elderly, the chronically ill and children who are experiencing stress from the ongoing earthquakes.
Greek seismologist Akis Celentis predicts that the current seismic activity could persist for several months. A similar situation occurred in Crete, where a magnitude 6,0 earthquake was preceded by four months of seismic activity.
Scientists suggest that the earthquakes may be linked to the underwater volcano Columbus, which is located 6,5 km from Santorini. In 1650, the eruption of Columbus caused destruction and death due to pyroclastic flows, tsunamis and gas emissions.
The earthquakes reportedly triggered numerous landslides in Santorini.
Professor Şenol Hakan Kutoğlu from Turkey warned that a magnitude 8 earthquake in the Aegean Sea could trigger tsunami waves of 3 to 5 meters high along the Turkish coast. In this regard, Turkish authorities have installed mobile sirens in Izmir, Aydın and Muğla to warn residents of possible tsunamis. The country has also activated an SMS alert system.
