ATHENS, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Greek government on Monday urged calm after hundreds of earthquakes, the strongest measuring 5 on the Richter scale, shook the volcanic island of Santorini since Jan. 28, sparking concern among locals and visitors.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking through state broadcaster ERT, called on residents to "remain calm and follow the instructions of Civil Protection."
The Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Ministry has ordered schools closed for the week and advised people to avoid large indoor gatherings and stay clear of cliffs in certain areas.
Authorities have deployed experts and emergency crews, while tents have been set up at a sports center as thousands chose to leave the island.
Santorini, home to around 20,000 permanent residents, attracts over 3 million tourists annually. Even in the off-season, groups of visitors were on the island when the tremors struck.
Flights and ferries were fully booked on Sunday and Monday, prompting airlines and ferry companies to add extra services to accommodate travelers. ■