ATHENS, Greece — Scientists from the University of Athens reported Monday that the earthquake swarm near the island of Santorini is in “gradual decline,” nearly a month after the seismic activity began.
The undersea tremors, at times occurring just minutes apart, prompted thousands of residents and workers to evacuate the iconic cliff-top towns of Santorini and the nearby islands of Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi.
Schools on the affected islands remain closed for a fourth consecutive week, with numerous restrictions still in place. However, experts expressed optimism over the recent trends in seismic activity.
“Seismic activity continues to show a gradual decline, both in terms of the daily number of recorded earthquakes and maximum magnitudes,” the Interdisciplinary Committee for Risk and Crisis Management at the University of Athens stated.
The committee noted that the quakes remain concentrated in the same focal area, and no new micro-seismic surges have been recorded since February 15.
Since January 26, more than 20,000 earthquakes with a magnitude of 1.0 or higher have been recorded, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 5.3. The quakes, attributed to natural tectonic movements and magma activity beneath the seabed, have caused only minor damage.
Santorini Mayor Nikos Zorzos announced Monday that several thousand evacuees had returned to the island since late last week. He urged government authorities to step up support, particularly in managing rockfall risks and enhancing hillside safety through fencing repairs and installations.
Local officials and experts continue to monitor the situation closely as life gradually returns to normal on the picturesque islands.
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