SANTORINI, Greece — Emergency crews have been deployed on the popular Greek island of Santorini as authorities respond to an alarming spike in seismic activity. Over the past few days, more than 200 undersea earthquakes have been recorded in the region, prompting the closure of schools not only on Santorini but also on nearby islands such as Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi. Civil protection measures have been put into place following widespread concern among residents and tourists regarding the possibility of a more significant earthquake onset.

The earthquakes, which have included tremors reaching up to magnitude 5.1, have instigated feelings of anxiety among locals, some of whom are opting to leave the island. "I have never felt anything like this and with such frequency — an earthquake every 10 or 20 minutes. Everyone is anxious even if some of us hide it not to cause panic," expressed Michalis Gerontakis, director of the Santorini Philharmonic Orchestra, during a recent performance amidst the tremors (HuffPost).

Following an emergency government meeting, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged citizens to remain calm and to adhere to safety recommendations issued by Civil Protection officials. The measures are said to be precautionary in nature, aimed at minimizing risks and ensuring public safety as the situation is closely monitored by experts. “We have a very intense geological phenomenon to handle,” Mitsotakis stated from Brussels (AP News).

Notably, while experts assert that these earthquakes are not linked to Santorini's dormant volcano, many residents find the activity disconcerting. Dr. Gerasimos Papadopoulos, a prominent seismologist, mentioned that the frequency and intensity of the tremors have escalated, indicating that while the threat is primarily tectonic, the risk level is higher (Newsweek).

Evacuations have led to crowded scenes at ferry terminals, and some Tempted tourists are opting to leave early despite plans to stay for the holiday season. "I need to get away for a few days until things calm down," said Nadia Benomar, a tour guide who has lived on the island for nearly two decades (Le Monde).

Major hotels have been instructed to drain their swimming pools to minimize potential damage from earthquakes, and emergency rescue teams have set up makeshift shelters on the island to assist those displaced by the tremors. Fire brigadier Ioannis Billias mentioned that a team of 26 rescuers has arrived to help manage the emergency response (Al Jazeera).

The picturesque Santorini is a primary tourist destination, attracting more than three million visitors annually. Its unique cliffside villages, borne from a massive volcanic eruption more than 3,500 years ago, contribute to its charm. As residents and visitors respond to the ongoing seismic activity, they are left to wonder about the implications for their beloved island.