Santorini Island Shaken by Series of Earthquakes

The news in Greek

1. σεισμός (m.)
   φυσικό φαινόμενο που προκαλείται από ξαφνική κίνηση της γης ↩︎
2. περιοχή (f.)
   συγκεκριμένο γεωγραφικό μέρος ή τμήμα ↩︎
3. ισχυρός
   αυτός που έχει μεγάλη δύναμη ή ένταση ↩︎
4. καταγράφω
   συλλέγω ή σημειώνω πληροφορίες ↩︎
5. προληπτικός
   σχετικός με την πρόληψη κινδύνων ↩︎
6. ασφάλεια (f.)
   κατάσταση στην οποία κάποιος είναι προστατευμένος από κινδύνους ↩︎

Translation

Text Comprehension

Question: Why are the schools closed on Santorini Island?

Question: What are the experts doing after the earthquakes on Santorini Island?

Vocabulary

Greek	English
σεισμός (m.)	earthquake
περιοχή (f.)	area
ισχυρός	strong
καταγράφω	record
προληπτικός	preventive
ασφάλεια (f.)	safety

Read the full story

The series of earthquakes began with a notable 5.0 magnitude tremor at just after 9 PM, followed by numerous smaller aftershocks. No significant structural damage has been reported on Santorini, and assessments confirm the integrity of local buildings. However, as a precaution, schools on Santorini, Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi remain closed until February 14th.

Research teams have initiated gravity measurements at key locations, such as Kamari in Santorini, aiming to analyze rock density changes since prior earthquakes in 2011-2012. According to Professor Evi Nomikou of the University of Athens, these findings will contribute to understanding deeper geological movements rather than just surface phenomena.

The primary seismic activity appears linked to underwater faults northeast and southwest of the area but is reportedly unconnected to known volcanic sites, including the Kolumbo underwater volcano near Santorini. To monitor the changes, portable seismographs have been strategically placed on the uninhabited islet of Anydro, and additional underwater seismic stations are being deployed.

Authorities have emphasised public safety measures, advising residents to avoid gathering in large groups indoors and to steer clear of derelict buildings and certain ports. Citizens have been urged to secure loose household items to prevent injuries during tremors.

Leading seismologists like Akis Tselentis and Kostas Papazachos have warned that these seismic events could persist, with the potential for sporadic, strong quakes over the coming weeks. Their analysis suggests that while significant disruption is unlikely, the seismic sequence will require patience as it gradually subsides. The authorities and experts continue to monitor the situation closely, assuring residents that precautionary methods are in place.

As a testament to the government’s commitment to readiness and public safety, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis recently reassured the citizens of Santorini and Amorgos of ongoing governmental support and preparedness for any eventuality, reinforcing the dedication to safeguarding the lives and well-being of the affected communities.

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