**Santorini Seismic Activity Prompts Precautionary Measures and School Closures**

With a history of volcanic eruptions, Santorini braces for potential seismic threats as precautionary responses are set into motion.

Schools across Santorini, one of Greece's most sought-after vacation spots, are closing on Monday following a notable surge in seismic activity that has rattled the island. Authorities are urging residents and tourists to avoid "large gatherings in enclosed spaces" as tremors hitting magnitudes of up to 4.6, alongside quakes registering at 4.3 and 3.9 nearby, have been detected over recent days.

The island lies on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, a region known for its complex geological activity stemming from tectonic plate movements, though the last significant eruption occurred in the 1950s. Greek officials confirmed that the minor tremors are predominantly due to tectonic shifts instead of volcanic actions, and they reassured that the volcanic activity within the Santorini caldera remains subdued.

Despite being classified as minor, the recent seismic events have led to a series of precautionary measures. In addition to school closures, ships have been advised to steer clear of the ports in Ammoudi and Fira, which are frequented by tourists arriving on large cruise vessels. The authorities have also cautioned against entering abandoned buildings or traversing routes susceptible to landslides.

While experts assert that there is a low likelihood of a volcanic eruption, they acknowledge the potential for stronger seismic events. Kostas Papazachos, a geophysicist at Thessaloniki Aristotle University, highlighted that taking preventative steps is vital in minimizing the impact of any unexpected seismic activity. He emphasized the need for caution in crowded settings during tremors to prevent panic-induced injuries.

In response to the heightened alert, the South Aegean Regional Fire Department has mobilized resources, with rescue teams and local commanders dispatched to Santorini. The island, home to approximately 15,500 residents, attracts millions of tourists annually, prompting the UK Foreign Office to remind British travelers of the ongoing safety measures.

Santorini's dramatic landscape, formed by one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history around 1600 BC, continues to captivate visitors, despite its dormant volcanic nature. The island has a storied history of eruptions, with the most catastrophic occurring in 1956, resulting in at least 53 fatalities.