Santorini earthquake updates: travel tips & safety guidelines

Santorini, one of Greece’s most famous islands, has recently experienced some seismic activity that has raised concerns about a volcanic eruption. Although this may sound a little worrying, experts say there’s no immediate cause for concern. The island remains a top travel destination and local authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation to ensure the safety of locals and visitors alike. 

Here’s what you need to know about the current conditions in Santorini:

A breathtaking view of Santorini’s iconic shoreline

What is the current situation in Santorini following the recent seismic activity?

In the past few days, small earthquakes have been recorded near Santorini, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 4.9 northeast of the island. There have also been reports of other 4.3 and 3.9 tremors in the surrounding area. 

According to Greek authorities and seismologists, these tremors are due to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic activity. The Santorini caldera, the volcanic basin around which the island is formed, is stable, and there are no signs of increased volcanic activity.

Has Santorini experienced similar seismic activity in the past?

Yes, Santorini’s volcano has gone through similar periods of seismic activity before without leading to an eruption. Between 2011 and 2012, geological movements beneath the surface indicated magma activity, according to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History's Global Volcanism Program. 

The last volcanic eruption on the island was in 1950 and it was relatively small, creating a lava dome and sending ash clouds a few hundred meters into the sky. While past activity doesn’t necessarily predict future events, experts continue to monitor the region closely.

Are there any precautionary measures or travel restrictions in Santorini?

Even though the tremors have been minor, local authorities have implemented precautionary measures to ensure public safety. These include the temporary closure of schools and a recommendation to avoid the small port of Ammoudi and the main cruise ship harbor in Fira.

Additionally, the South Aegean Regional Fire Department has been placed on high alert and emergency response teams have been dispatched to the island. Travelers and residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources. They have also been advised to avoid the shoreline, stay away from abandoned buildings and avoid large gatherings in enclosed spaces.

For those staying in hotels or rental accommodations, it’s a good idea to become familiar with emergency procedures and designated safe zones in case of further tremors.

What are the experts saying about the seismic activity in Santorini?

During an emergency meeting led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece’s Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OSAP) and the Ministry of Civil Protection confirmed that there are no signs of an imminent volcanic eruption. However, they acknowledged that while the risk remains low, it cannot be entirely ruled out. Monitoring efforts continue, with the University of Athens’ Seismological Laboratory registering more than 200 tremors in the broader region in the last 48 hours.

View of Nea Kameni, the volcanic island at the heart of Santorini's caldera

Useful tips for traveling to Santorini during the current seismic activity

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini or considering leaving the island, here are some simple precautions to keep in mind:

• Follow updates from official sources such as the Greek Civil Protection Agency and local authorities.
• Respect any local safety guidelines, especially if certain ports or public areas are temporarily restricted.
• In the event of a tremor, stay calm and follow recommended earthquake safety procedures (e.g., moving away from glass windows and heavy furniture).
• If you're planning to visit or leave Santorini by ferry, note that Blue Star Ferries and Fast Ferries are the only companies operating routes all year round. Check their websites for updates on routes, cancellations or any changes due to the current seismic activity.
• Pack comfortable shoes and an emergency kit with essentials like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a portable phone charger, just in case.
• Check out our dedicated page for more information about Santorini ferries.