- Schools across Santorini are temporarily closed until February 21, 2025.
- Public events in enclosed spaces have been cancelled for safety.
- Access to specific areas, including Ammoudi and Armeni, is restricted.
- Extra precautions are advised near unstable structures and coastal zones.
- Construction and scaffold work in specific areas are banned until further notice.
- Visitors and locals must follow safety measures for earthquake preparedness.
Santorini’s civil protection authorities are intensifying safety efforts in response to recent seismic activity in the region. The deputy mayor for civil protection issued yesterday, February 16, 2025, the “6th Decision to take preventive civil protection measures due to the current seismic activity in the Thira area.”
Main Measures Announced
- Temporary School Closures: All educational facilities, including daycares and schools, will remain closed until Friday, February 21, 2025, as a precautionary step.
- Event Cancellations: Indoor gatherings and events across Santorini are suspended through the same date.
- Restricted Access to Specific Areas: Entry to Ammoudi, Armeni, the Old Port of Fira, and Korfos in Thirasia is prohibited.
- Construction Ban in Caldera: All construction work in the Caldera area is halted until Sunday, February 23, 2025, except for official public projects.
- Coastal Area Safety: Residents and tourists are strongly advised to avoid staying in or accessing coastal regions during a strong earthquake.
- Swimming Pool Precaution: Pool waters must be drained immediately to prevent potential hazards.
- Ban on Certain Construction Activities: Concrete works, projects requiring scaffolding, and the presence of scaffolds throughout Santorini are forbidden until further notice.
- Access Restrictions Around Goulas Emporio: Visitors and locals must avoid the area around this historical site for their safety.
- Public Hazard Alerts: Emphasis on structural checks and securing properties from non-structural risks like heavy objects and false ceilings.
Safety Advice for Residents and Visitors
To ensure personal safety amid the ongoing seismic activity, civil protection shared key recommendations:
- Steer clear of abandoned or unstable buildings.
- Use secure routes when travelling, especially on steep slopes prone to landslides.
- Always have an emergency plan ready in coastal areas; evacuate quickly during an earthquake.
- Strengthen structural components in private properties to minimize risks.
Navigating Santorini Safely in Uncertain Times
These temporary measures prioritize the safety of Santorini’s community and visitors. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidance, ensuring responsible travel and reduced risks during seismic events. As the situation evolves, updates from the island’s civil protection authorities will continue.
