Earthquakes are sudden and violent shaking of the ground, resulting from the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. They occur when accumulated stress along geological faults exceeds the strength of the rocks, causing a release of energy in the form of seismic waves. These events can vary in intensity and duration, and are measured using a seismometer, with the magnitude quantified on the Richter scale or the Moment Magnitude scale.
Earthquakes can lead to significant damage to buildings, infrastructure, and can result in tsunamis, landslides, and aftershocks. They are classified as either shallow, intermediate, or deep based on their focal depth, with shallow earthquakes typically causing the most destruction. Their occurrence is often unpredictable, affecting regions differently based on their geological characteristics. Seismology, the scientific study of earthquakes, aims to understand their causes, effects, and to improve prediction methods to mitigate risks associated with these natural disasters.
Santorini has experienced over 1,000 earthquakes since January, with the strongest recorded at magnitude 5.2. A state of emergency was declared on February 6 due to the intensity and frequency…