Scientists Investigate Santorini Volcano Amid Eruption Concerns

Scientists are intensifying research around Santorini, Greece, after a recent series of earthquakes raised concerns about the risk of a future volcanic eruption on the popular tourist island. Led by Professor Isobel Yeo from the UK's National Oceanography Centre, teams are using advanced underwater robots to map the caldera and monitor the island’s main volcano and the nearby underwater Kolumbo volcano. These efforts aim to improve forecasting by analyzing how circulating fluids interact with magma beneath the surface, as underwater volcanoes—making up about two-thirds of the world’s volcanoes—are largely unmonitored and pose significant risks. The 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai eruption is cited as a stark reminder of the potential devastation from such events, which can trigger tsunamis and widespread destruction. While Santorini’s volcano is not expected to erupt imminently, experts warn against complacency, emphasizing that smaller past eruptions do not guarantee future safety. Authorities and scientists hope new mapping and monitoring efforts will better inform residents and help manage future risks.