Earthquakes on Santorini

Santorini, a beautiful island in Greece, has been experiencing a lot of small earthquakes recently. These earthquakes have been happening frequently, and scientists are paying close attention to understand what’s going on. Let’s explore what’s happening with the earthquakes on Santorini, learn about earthquakes, and discover how scientists study them.

What Are Earthquakes?

Earthquakes are sudden shakings of the ground caused by movements deep inside the Earth. Imagine the Earth’s surface as a giant puzzle made of pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are always moving, but sometimes they get stuck. When they finally move past each other, they release energy, causing the ground to shake—this is an earthquake.

What Is An Earthquake Swarm?

Usually, earthquakes have one big shake followed by smaller ones. But sometimes, many small earthquakes happen in the same area over a short period without a big one. This is called an earthquake swarm. It’s like when you shake a soda can, and lots of tiny bubbles form quickly.

Santorini’s Recent Earthquake Swarm

Since late January 2025, Santorini and nearby islands have experienced thousands of small earthquakes. Most of these are mild and don’t cause damage, but they can be felt by people living there. Scientists are studying this swarm to understand why it’s happening and if it might lead to bigger earthquakes. The largest quake so far was a magnitude 5.2 on February 5.
earthsky.org

A Look Back: The Minoan Eruption

Santorini has a history of volcanic activity. About 3,600 years ago, a massive volcanic eruption, known as the Minoan eruption, occurred on the island. This eruption was one of the biggest in human history and had a significant impact on the ancient Minoan civilization. The eruption caused the center of the island to collapse, creating a large crater filled with seawater, which we now see as the island’s beautiful lagoon.

How Scientists Study Earthquakes

Scientists who study earthquakes are called seismologists. They use special tools to detect and measure earthquakes. One important tool is the seismograph, which records the vibrations of the ground. By analyzing these recordings, seismologists can determine the location, depth, and strength of an earthquake.

The Role of the USGS

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is an organization that monitors earthquakes around the world. They collect data from seismographs and share information with the public. On their website, you can find maps showing where earthquakes have occurred, their magnitudes, and other details. This helps people stay informed and prepared.

Staying Safe During Earthquake Swarms

While most of the recent earthquakes in Santorini are small, it’s essential to know how to stay safe:

Stay Informed: Listen to local news and follow advice from authorities.

Have a Plan: Know safe spots in your home, like under sturdy tables, and practice what to do during an earthquake.

Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include items like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

Conclusion

Santorini’s recent earthquake swarm reminds us of the Earth’s dynamic nature.

Understanding earthquakes and staying informed are important, and can help us to appreciate the power of our planet while keeping ourselves safe.