Scientists in Santorini which has been shaken by intense earthquakes since the end of January are saying that seismic activity is showing signs of easing. Meanwhile, studies have begun on the construction of two emergency escape ports, which will serve in case of disasters such as an earthquake or volcanic eruption on the island.
One of the two ports is planned for construction in Vlychada, on the southern coast of Santorini.
Santorini’s mayor confirmed that the study for the escape gate in Vlychada has been completed and the project is funded by the Ministry of Civil Protection, while construction will be aided by the assistance of the military.
The project will be carried out by the Military Works Department, and is expected to be finished within approximately ten months after work on the project commences.
At the same time, a study is underway for the second escape port in the area of Akra Koloumbos, on the northeastern side of the island.
As reported these ports will facilitate the rapid arrival of rescue teams and ensure the safe evacuation of the population, if needed.
Despite the decrease in seismic activity, experts emphasize that complacency should be avoided, as Santorini remains a seismically active area that requires continuous monitoring and preventive protection measures.
A special team of scientists from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens is currently on the island, documenting slopes in five high-risk areas: Athinios, Old Port, Amoudi, Armeni, and Korfos on Thirasia Island. Using specialized drones, the researchers are collecting data on areas with a higher risk of landslides.
Professor of Remote Sensing and Tectonic Geomorphology at the University of Athens, Manolis Vasilakis, highlighted that landslides are a persistent phenomenon.
“Protection measures have been implemented, but our task is to identify which ones have failed, which need improvement, and which additional ones should be constructed,” he stated.
