Israeli authorities have issued precautionary measures following a series of over 7,700 minor earthquakes recorded in the Santorini Islands, Greece. The seismic activity has raised concerns about a potential tsunami impacting Israel’s Mediterranean coastline.
The recent surge in seismic activity near the Greek island of Santorini has prompted Israeli officials to convene an urgent meeting to assess the risk of a tsunami. The National Security Council, in collaboration with emergency agencies and government ministries, is closely monitoring the situation. Santorini, which sits on a major fault line, has historically been linked to large-scale volcanic eruptions and seismic events.
Dr. Eli Shmuel, a seismologist at the Israel Geological Institute, noted, “While most of these quakes have been minor, the sheer number of tremors in a short period is unusual and warrants close observation.”
According to the Hellenic Seismic Institute, the region has experienced increased seismic activity since late January. Greek authorities have not yet issued an evacuation order but have warned coastal residents to remain alert. Reports from the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirm that some tremors have been strong enough to be felt on nearby islands, though no significant damage has been recorded so far (EMSC, 2025).
Studies published by the Geological Survey of Israel indicate that underwater landslides in the Eastern Mediterranean could trigger tsunamis with waves reaching several meters in height. Researchers caution that although rare, these events pose a significant risk due to the high population density along Israel’s coastline (Geological Survey of Israel, 2024).
In light of the recent developments, the Israeli government has urged citizens, particularly those living along the coast, to remain informed about safety protocols. The National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) is working to enhance early warning systems and increase public awareness about evacuation procedures.
“We are taking every necessary precaution, though, at this moment, there is no immediate cause for alarm,” said Defense Minister Yoav Gallant during a press conference in Tel Aviv. “We advise all citizens to stay updated through official channels.”
Emergency drills have been scheduled in coastal cities, and local municipalities are ensuring that sirens and alert systems are functional. According to a statement released by NEMA, schools and public institutions along Israel’s coast will participate in a tsunami preparedness exercise next week (NEMA, 2025).
International experts have previously warned that the Mediterranean is not immune to large tsunamis. The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has been working with countries in the region, including Israel, to improve detection and response capabilities.
Professor Maria Konstantinou, a geophysicist specializing in tsunami modeling at the University of Athens, explains, “While tsunamis in the Mediterranean are generally smaller than those in the Pacific or Indian Ocean, their impact can still be devastating, especially in highly populated coastal areas.”
A report by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) found that increased seismic activity in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean could pose a growing risk of tsunamis. The report urged governments to invest in real-time monitoring and public education campaigns (UNESCO-IOC, 2024).
As seismic activity continues in Santorini, Israeli authorities will remain on high alert. The Israel Seismological Institute is increasing real-time monitoring of undersea tremors, and officials will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Residents and visitors in coastal regions are encouraged to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and remain vigilant for official announcements. While no immediate danger has been reported, authorities stress that awareness and preparation can make a critical difference in emergency situations.
For continued updates, visit the National Emergency Management Authority’s official website and follow local news broadcasts.
