Greece has declared a state of emergency on Santorini as frequent earthquakes rattle the island, with emergency teams already in place to mobilize resources and respond more quickly to potential disasters.
Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean, now holding its breath as seismic activity continues to shake the island.
Minor tremors began in late January but intensified in early February, with stronger and more frequent quakes. Thousands have fled the popular tourist destination as scientists warn of a potential volcanic eruption.
Now, authorities are fully prepared in case the situation worsens.
"We have prepared our operations center, so we are able to search and rescue people from very tight spaces, both with human beings and dogs. We also have some very special equipment which is used to bend sheets of metal, such as car doors or even regular doors," said a staff member at the Hellenic Red Cross.
To address the situation, hospitals and medical centers stay ready on Santorini, and emergency tents have been set up outside.
"We are prepared for the worst-case scenario. We hope not, of course, but we are here. We've set up the formation and tents outside for an emergency evacuation of the hospital, so I can say we're here. We are waiting and preparing for everything, and we hope for the best, not for the worst," said a medical worker at Santorini Hospital.
The recent earthquakes have shaken the local community. Families have been forced to evacuate, businesses have closed, and there's a constant sense of uncertainty in the air.
First responders feel it too, facing the same challenges while staying vigilant in helping those in need.
"Of course, they have some fear. Some of them have some fear. It's pretty normal that they have fear. But we are here, and we are ready to do what to do. I mean, what it's going to be, it's something that we cannot avoid it, so we try to be very calm and very optimistic," said the medical worker.
Santorini recorded 7,700 earthquakes in just the past week, with the most powerful registering a magnitude of 5.2 on the seismograph.
Greece declares state of emergency on Santorini following quakes
Greece declares state of emergency on Santorini following quakes
Greece declares state of emergency on Santorini following quakes
