Tremors of about 5 magnitude occurred within an hour in the area of the Greek islands of Santorini and Amorgos, where an increase in seismic activity has been observed since late January, Protothema reports.
Two powerful seismic tremors, measuring 5.0 and 4.8 on the Richter scale, struck early Tuesday morning in the sea area between Santorini and Amorgos.
The first earthquake had a magnitude of 5.0 and was centered 17 km south-southeast of Arkesini, Amorgos. Its focal depth was recorded at 13.6 kilometers
The second earthquake was equally strong, measuring 4.8 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter located 27 km southwest of Arkesini, Amorgos, and a focal depth of 5 kilometers.
Both earthquakes were also felt in Attica.
Before that, at around 5am, a 4.5 magnitude tremor occurred in the same area.
High seismic activity in the area of the islands of Santorini and Amorgos began on January 26. Frequent tremors, which could be a precursor to a major earthquake, have forced thousands of tourists and local residents to leave Santorini. Schools have been closed and emergency teams are on duty in Santorini.
Vassilis Kikilias, the Minister of Climate Crisis & Civil Protection of Greece, said the country will soon create an evacuation port on Santorini to facilitate the safe evacuation of people in the event of a stronger earthquake.