by Ekavi Charalampakou
Santorini Island has been experiencing a seismic sequence for nearly a month. Experts, including nexusmonARC team member Prof. Evi Nomikou, are continuously monitoring the phenomenon and providing guidance to government officials and citizens.
To gain a local perspective, we spoke with Ekavi Charalampakou, a Geology and Geoenvironment graduate who lives in Santorini and organizes citizen science activities for nexus monARC. Read on to learn about her experience during this ongoing seismic activity.
Living with Tremors: A Local Perspective on Santorini’s Seismic Activity
Since January 25, 2025, Santorini has been experiencing continuous seismic activity, with over 12,800 earthquakes recorded, including a 5.3-magnitude tremor on February 10 felt as far as Athens. The persistent tremors led to widespread evacuations, leaving the island nearly deserted, with schools closed and businesses operating at reduced capacity. While many families relocated, some individuals have returned for work, leaving their loved ones in safer areas. Emergency teams remain on standby, ensuring a quick response if needed.
The municipality has placed warning signs advising people to avoid the caldera and other potentially hazardous areas in case of stronger quakes. Initially, scientists reassured residents that the activity was purely tectonic, but the latest data suggests magmatic movement at shallower depths. This has heightened concerns, and residents are closely monitoring scientific reports, waiting for official instructions.
Despite the uncertainty, those who remain on the island hope for stability so they can safely return to normal life and resume their activities.

Landslides captured live on camera at the caldera during recent earthquakes.