Santorini, one of Greece's most beloved tourist destinations, is on high alert following a series of tremors that have shaken the island and its surrounding areas.
Scientists monitoring the situation have warned that the biggest earthquake may not have happened yet, prompting authorities to ramp up emergency preparations.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has arrived on the island to assess the situation first-hand, meeting with local officials and experts to coordinate response efforts. A state of emergency has been declared, allowing for the rapid mobilization of resources, while seismologists continue to analyze data to determine the likelihood of further quakes.
The tremors have also impacted nearby islands, with reports of minor structural damage and precautionary evacuations in some areas. While no casualties have been reported, many residents and tourists are opting to leave the island as uncertainty grows.
The tourism industry, which is vital to Santorini's economy, could face significant setbacks if fears of a larger quake continue to escalate. Businesses dependent on tourism, such as hotels, restaurants, and local vendors, are already reporting cancellations, raising concerns about the economic fallout should the situation worsen.
Authorities stress that safety remains the top priority, with evacuation plans and emergency services on standby. Speaking on the island, Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of a cautious approach.
\"My job is to always err on the side of caution, and that is why we have remobilized the state infrastructure in the eventuality of a bigger earthquake,\" the PM said. \"We are constantly listening to the experts, and we will take our decisions based on their expert advice.\"
Despite the uncertainty, officials urge the public to remain calm and follow safety guidelines. As seismic activity continues to be closely monitored, the situation remains fluid.
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Greek PM visits Santorini as experts fear worse tremors to come
cgtn.com
