kathimerini.gr
Increased Seismic Activity and Volcanic Monitoring in Santorini-Amorgos Area
Over 15,300 earthquakes have hit the Santorini-Amorgos area since January 26th, 2024, including a 5 Richter quake on February 12th; Santorini's caldera has risen and shifted, prompting monitoring for potential volcanic eruption; Amorgos is under a state of emergency.
- What is the immediate impact of the intense seismic activity in the Santorini-Amorgos area?
- Since January 26th, over 15,300 earthquakes have hit the Santorini-Amorgos zone, with over 1,200 occurring on February 10th alone. A 5-Richter earthquake struck 5.5 km southwest of Anhydros on February 12th. The increased seismic activity has led to Amorgos being declared in a state of emergency until March 11th.
- How do the ongoing seismic events relate to the observed changes in Santorini's volcanic activity?
- The seismic activity, unrelated to Santorini's volcanic changes observed since autumn, shows a swarm pattern with numerous quakes exceeding 4 Richter, reaching up to 5. This prolonged sequence, unprecedented in Greece, hasn't caused damage yet, but experts warn about a potential 6.5 Richter earthquake.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the current seismic and volcanic situation in the region?
- Santorini's caldera has risen 4 cm and shifted 6 cm east since August 2024, due to magma rising. While this resembles the 2011-2012 event which didn't erupt, the current 5 million cubic meters magma rise (compared to 15 million in 2011-2012) necessitates continued monitoring, as a volcanic eruption remains a possibility.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article emphasizes the immediate threat of a major earthquake, potentially overshadowing the smaller, though still present, probability of a volcanic eruption. The headline and opening sentences highlight the earthquake, making it the primary focus. The information on the volcanic activity is presented later in the article, potentially diminishing its perceived importance.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, using descriptive terms like "significant change" and "small probability." However, phrases such as "the dance of Richter" and descriptions of potential damage could be considered slightly sensationalistic, although not overtly biased.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the seismic activity and the potential for a large earthquake, giving less attention to other potential geological factors or the long-term history of volcanic activity in the area. While the possibility of a volcanic eruption is mentioned, the analysis of this risk seems somewhat limited, focusing on the recent uplift of the caldera rather than a more comprehensive assessment of volcanic indicators.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by separating the seismic activity from the volcanic activity, suggesting that they are unrelated. While the experts state this, the possibility of a connection, however indirect, is not fully explored.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant seismic activity near Santorini and Amorgos, posing potential risks to these communities. The possibility of a major earthquake and consequent damage to infrastructure and buildings directly threatens the safety and well-being of residents and the sustainability of these island communities. The declaration of a state of emergency in Amorgos further underscores this negative impact.