Greece Santorini Earthquakes (2025)

In early 2025, intense seismic activity was observed around the Greek island of Santorini in the Aegean Sea. The swarm of tremors, which began on 28 January 2025 and lasted for several days, was described by experts as a “earthquake storm” and has raised concern in both Greece and neighbor countries. Earthquakes in the Aegean Sea affected not only Santorini but also the islands of Ios, Amorgos and Anafi, leading to the evacuation of residents and tourists in the region.

Map Representation (Source: BBC)

The earthquakes were continuously monitored by the Europe-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the Greek National Observatory and Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), with hundreds of tremors recorded, the largest measuring between 5.2 and 5.3 in magnitude. While the focal depths of the earthquakes ranged from 5 to 25 kilometres, the frequent occurrence of aftershocks heightened panic in the region.

Santorini is part of a region known as the “Hellenic Arc,” which has been the site of major volcanic eruptions in the past and sits atop an active volcano. However, Greek seismologists and geologists have clarified that the current tremors are not directly linked to volcanic activity. Experts stated that these earthquakes originate from tectonic movements in the region and that the risk of an eruption at Santorini Volcano remains very low.

The earthquakes around Santorini and neighboring islands have negatively impacted infrastructure, transportation, education and tourism in the region. Authorities have implemented various measures to ensure public safety, with over 9,000 people evacuated. The Greek government and science citizens continue to closely monitor the seismic activity in the area.

Characteristics and Progression of the Earthquakes

Timeline and Number of Earthquakes

• 28 January – 3 February 2025: Seismic activity in the region increased significantly, with over 500 earthquakes recorded during this period.
• 3 February 2025: Measurements by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and AFAD recorded the largest tremor at magnitude 5.2. The Kandilli Observatory revised the magnitude to 5.3.
• 4 February 2025: The number of earthquakes exceeded 750. The largest tremor recorded on the same day measured 4.9 in magnitude.
• Daily Tremors: Earthquakes occurred at average intervals of 10 to 20 minutes, causing widespread public anxiety.

Magnitude and Depth of Earthquakes

• Largest earthquakes: Tremors measuring 5.2 and 5.3 in magnitude.
• Average magnitude: Hundreds of aftershocks recorded with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 4.8.
• Depth: Earthquakes occurred at focal depths between 5 and 25 kilometres.

Origin and Causes of the Earthquakes

The earthquakes around Santorini occurred along the Hellenic Arc, a volcanic island chain. However, experts have stated that these tremors do not indicate an impending volcanic eruption and are primarily caused by tectonic movements.

1. Tectonic Movements:

2. Possibility of Volcanic Activity:

Comparison with Previous Major Earthquakes

1) 1956 Amorgos Earthquake (Magnitude 7.5):

2) 2011–2012 Seismic Activity:

3) 2025 Tremors:

Potential Future Scenarios

1) Prolonged Seismic Activity:

2) Expectation of Magnitude 6 or Higher Earthquake:

3) Tsunami Risk:

Regional Impacts

• Migration and Evacuations: A total of 9,000 people have left the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Anafi.
• Transportation: Aegean Airlines has added extra flights for those wishing to leave the islands, and ferry operators have increased capacity.
• Education: Schools on Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Anafi were closed for one week.
• Safety Measures: The Greek government has advised the public not to gather indoors, avoid approaching unsafe buildings, stay away from landslide-prone areas and drain swimming pools.
• Tourism: Santorini, which welcomes three million tourists annually, has seen even its limited winter-season visitors depart due to the seismic activity.

Current Status and Ongoing Measures

• Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called on the public to remain calm and confirmed that scientists are closely monitoring the situation.
• Greece’s Southern Aegean Regional Fire Department has been placed on alert, and rescue teams have been deployed to Santorini.
• Buildings in the region are being regularly inspected and safety measures are being implemented due to the ongoing seismic activity.
• Some residents who have chosen to remain on the island are spending nights in open areas or in their vehicles due to the frequency of tremors.