Scientists have detected mild volcanic activity in Greece’s popular island destination of Santorini, sparking interest but assuring the public there is no immediate cause for concern.
The country’s Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Ministry announced that monitoring sensors have picked up “mild seismic-volcanic activity” in Santorini’s caldera. This prompted the Civil Protection Minister to convene a meeting with local and disaster response officials to discuss the findings.
According to the scientists monitoring the Hellenic Volcanic Arc—which stretches from the Peloponnese through the Cycladic islands—the activity was noted in a central fault line in the northern part of Santorini’s caldera. Similar activity was recorded in 2011, lasting for 14 months without causing any issues.
“According to the scientists, based on the currently available data there is no cause for particular concern,” the ministry’s announcement stated, aiming to reassure both residents and visitors of the island.
Santorini, renowned for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches perched on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, is one of Greece’s most beloved tourist spots. The island’s unique crescent shape is the result of a massive volcanic eruption that occurred around 1620 BC—one of the largest in human history—which devastated a significant portion of the island and is believed to have contributed to the decline of the ancient Minoan civilization.
Despite being an active volcano, Santorini’s last notable eruption was in 1950. Efthymios Lekkas, seismologist and head of the scientific monitoring committee for the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, emphasized that major eruptions are rare events. “What we must realize is that the Santorini volcano produces very large explosions every 20,000 years,” Lekkas said in an interview with Greece’s ERT television. “It’s been 3,000 years since the last explosion, so we have a very long time ahead of us before we face a big explosion.”
While experts continue to monitor the situation closely, life on the island carries on as usual. Tourists and locals alike are encouraged to stay informed but not alarmed, as the volcanic activity remains mild and within expected patterns.
Santorini’s breathtaking beauty and rich history continue to captivate the world, and the recent volcanic stirring is a reminder of the dynamic earth beneath us. Visitors are welcomed to explore and enjoy all that the island has to offer, with the assurance from scientists that there is no imminent threat.
