Newsbomb.gr Report: Sotiris Skouloudis, Haris Gkikas

The connection between the intense seismic activity and the active volcanoes in the Santorini region, including Nea Kameni and Kolumbo, is the focus of an ongoing research effort. Experts are working to better understand the phenomenon of intense seismic excitation in the area.

A multidisciplinary team from eight European universities, led by Evi Nomikou, a geology professor at NKUA (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens), visited Nea Kameni, the Santorini volcano, on Tuesday afternoon to conduct research and take new specialized measurements. Earlier that day, the team deployed two underwater seismographs in the Santorini Caldera, vital tools that will soon help them gain a clearer understanding of the phenomenon.

Measuring Volcanic Activity

The team has installed specialized instruments to measure the temperature and chemical composition of gases that continuously escape from the volcano. So far, the results are not alarming: the volcanic activity remains within normal levels.

Professor Evi Nomikou highlighted that in 2011, the situation was far more concerning. Back then, dense volcanic fumes made the landscape of Nea Kameni appear hazy for long periods. However, she noted that from August 2024 to January 2025, there was intense seismic activity along Nea Kameni, marked by numerous micro-earthquakes. This activity suddenly stopped and was followed by an increase in seismic activity outside the Caldera.

Tectonic and Volcanic Activity – A Key Connection

“There is always a correlation between volcanic and tectonic activity. This is why seismic activity near volcanic zones is closely monitored,” Nomikou explained.

She emphasized that in 1956, when Santorini experienced a major earthquake, scientists did not have the necessary instruments to detect changes in the volcano’s geothermal energy levels. However, with the upcoming deployment of additional seismographs on nearby islands, researchers will soon have a much clearer picture of the situation.

Findings from Underwater Measurements

A scientific team from NTUA (National Technical University of Athens) previously conducted extensive research in October 2024 on the hydrothermal field of the underwater Kolumbo volcano. Their data has now been compared with the latest high-seismicity conditions in the region.

Key findings from the recent analysis:

• Water turbidity at 500m depth (within the hydrothermal field) and in the first 100m has increased by 25%, likely due to heightened volcanic activity and sediment disturbance.

• Water temperatures, previously recorded only near the hydrothermal vents at 500m depth, were now detected at 400m depth on Sunday, February 2.

• In October 2024, changes in water composition were observed below 360m depth. However, in the latest measurements, these changes were detected from 240m depth downward. This suggests that over 120 million tons of water have been affected within the volcano's crater basin since October.

• Gamma radiation levels, primarily from radon gas, were three times higher near the hydrothermal vents. Throughout the entire water column, radiation levels were double those recorded in October 2024.

Next Steps

The research team will continue monitoring these developments closely, using the newly deployed seismographs and underwater sensors to track any further changes in volcanic activity. While the volcano currently shows no alarming signs, the intensifying seismic activity requires continued observation to ensure public safety.