A scientific committee in Greece has issued a warning about possible volcanic activity around Santorini. The official committee has identified “Increased ground deformation” around the island of Santorini. Following the alert, schools on the islands in the region have been closed for an additional week.

In Greece, a volcanic activity warning has been issued for Santorini island and its surroundings.

Professor Efthimios Lekkas, President of the Earthquake Protection and Planning Organization (OASP), convened a joint meeting today of two Committees (Seismic Hazard Assessment and Seismic Risk Reduction Permanent Scientific Committee and OASP’s Permanent Scientific Committee for Monitoring the Greek Volcanic Zone).

According to To Vima, the committee stated that 1300 earthquakes of magnitude 3 and above have occurred in the region, issuing a series of warnings. The committee’s warnings are as follows:

– The seismic sequence in the Anydros sea area between Thira and Amorgos has shown a relative decrease in seismicity with around 1300 earthquakes of magnitude 3 and above (and a recorded maximum magnitude of 5.3) since February 1.

MOVEMENT OF MAGMA

– The current seismic activity in the Anydros island region is caused by submarine faults in the Northwest and Southeast directions and is part of a broader geodynamic context of the region. According to the available data, this activity has resulted from the combination of tectonic movements and deeper magma processes.

– While seismic activity within the caldera remains at similar levels, increased ground deformation is observed in wider areas of monitored Santorini.

Following the decision, schools in Thira, Ios, Anafi, and Amorgos will remain closed until Friday, February 21, 2025. The committee will reconvene on Wednesday.