(Adnkronos) – The seismic activity that has been affecting the Greek island of Santorini since the end of January has reached a new intensity, reaching a magnitude of 5.3 on the Richter scale in the last few hours. Local authorities report that the latest quake, the strongest recorded in recent weeks in Santorini with an epicenter 17 kilometers deep, was felt as far away as Athens. However, this is only the latest of over 12,800 earthquakes that have been recorded on the Cyclades island since January 28, as detected by the Seismological Laboratory of the University of Athens.
Meanwhile, a state of emergency has been declared in Santorini, which will remain in effect until March 3. Residents of the nearby island of Amorgos also remain on high alert after the latest quake, which follows a magnitude 5 earthquake that occurred between the islands on Sunday evening. Seismologists were initially optimistic that the seismic swarm was diminishing, but have subsequently said they fear it could increase in intensity.
There are currently no reports of injuries from the earthquakes, but as a precaution, 11,000 people have already left Santorini and Amorgos. Schools remain closed.
