Understanding Santorini’s Earthquakes: The Role of Sideways Magma Movement

What Happened in Santorini?

Earlier this year, Santorini experienced thousands of small earthquakes, leaving many puzzled about their origins. Scientists have now found that these tremors are not linked to traditional volcanic activity but arise from sideways movement of magma beneath the earth’s crust. This revelation sheds light on the unique geological dynamics of the famous island.

Magma movement beneath Santorini

Researchers studied the seismic data and discovered that the earthquakes resulted from magma shifting horizontally, rather than the vertical movements typically associated with volcanic eruptions. This sideways magma movement indicates a complex geological framework that could influence future seismic activities. Understanding these processes is crucial for both residents and tourists, as it helps in assessing the risk of larger tremors or volcanic eruptions in the future.