Greece: Fears of Earthquake Prompt Mass Exodus from Santorini

Residents and tourists are fleeing Santorini amid fears of an impending earthquake, following a series of over 200 undersea tremors, The Guardian reported. On Monday, an earthquake measuring 4.8 on the Richter scale struck at 2:17 PM local time, prompting heightened alert from authorities.

Aegean Airlines has doubled its flights from Athens to Santorini, with tickets selling out within seconds. Ferry services are also increasing to accommodate the surge in demand. Tourists reported feeling unsafe, with many opting to sleep outdoors or in their cars.

Dr. Gerassimos Papadopoulos, a seismologist, warned that the risk level has escalated, noting that a seismic fault line has been activated, potentially leading to a stronger quake. Schools in Santorini and nearby islands will remain closed until Friday, and residents are advised to avoid coastal areas due to tsunami risks.

Emergency services, including medical crews and rescue teams, are being deployed to assist. Greece, situated on multiple fault lines, has a history of significant seismic activity, including a devastating 7.7 magnitude quake in 1956.