Israel Prepares for Potential Tsunami Threat Amid Seismic Activity

Israel is on high alert for the possible impact of a major tsunami, with experts warning of the increased likelihood of such an event due to heightened seismic activity. The deputy head of the National Security Council emphasized the importance of preparation in a meeting with emergency agencies and government ministries on Wednesday. While the exact time and location of the next tsunami are uncertain, the threat becomes more likely during periods of significant seismic activity, such as the recent tremors in Greece.

The Santorini Islands have recently experienced thousands of small earthquakes, raising concerns that a major earthquake could trigger a tsunami in the Mediterranean, potentially impacting Israel’s coastline. Israel is equipped with a regional tsunami warning system, which allows for early detection and alerts once a tsunami wave is identified. Tsunami sensors are also positioned along Israel’s coast to monitor the situation in real-time.

Tsunamis are a series of long waves caused by undersea earthquakes. As these waves approach shallow waters, they can rise drastically, creating devastating impacts on coastal areas. The waves can continue for hours, with the first wave not always being the largest. Flooding may last from hours to several days, posing a significant risk to coastal residents.

Ariel Heimann, a senior geologist at the Institute for National Security Studies, addressed concerns related to the recent seismic activity in Greece. He explained that the region has experienced numerous earthquakes, including some with magnitudes between 4 and 5.3. These tremors result from the collision of tectonic plates, which can also lead to volcanic eruptions. Heimann reassured that even if these earthquakes cause a tsunami, it would take time for the waves to travel across the Mediterranean, giving ample opportunity for a warning.

While there is no immediate threat, experts caution that Israel must remain vigilant and prepare for the possibility of a tsunami. A major earthquake in the region is not a question of "if," but "when," and the country must continue to strengthen its readiness for this natural disaster.

On that note, a fresh series of seismic tremors shook the Greek island of Santorini early Thursday morning, adding to an unprecedented wave of earthquakes that have been rattling the region since late January. Over 6,000 tremors have been recorded by Greece's Athens Geodynamic Institute, with a series of seven earthquakes over magnitude 4.0 occurring in quick succession. This wave follows a powerful 5.2-magnitude earthquake recorded on Wednesday evening. While no injuries or damage have been reported, experts are concerned about the ongoing intensity of the tremors, which have led to a mass exodus of over 11,000 residents and seasonal workers from the island.

The Greek government has mobilized its full state apparatus to prepare for any potential risks, with additional seismic sensors deployed across the Aegean Sea region, particularly around the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Anafi, and Ios.

Meanwhile, volcanic activity on Italy's Stromboli island has also intensified. The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) confirmed a significant lava overflow from the volcano's northern summit on February 6, 2025, continuing a series of effusive eruptions that have been ongoing for several days. This activity follows increased spattering and explosive bursts at the summit, with lava flowing down the steep Sciara del Fuoco, a prominent collapse scar on the volcano’s northwest flank.

While the Aviation Color Code remains at Orange, indicating ongoing volcanic activity but no immediate eruption threat, the island's steep terrain and persistent eruptions make it a region of concern for pyroclastic flows, rockfalls, and tsunamis. Local authorities have been monitoring the situation closely, especially since lava flows have been recorded moving towards populated areas within a 5 km radius, home to approximately 2,225 residents.

Stromboli has been erupting almost continuously since 1934, and experts have issued periodic warnings for potential escalation in volcanic intensity.

Geophysical Concerns and Ongoing Risks

Both Santorini and Stromboli face ongoing geophysical challenges as tremors and volcanic eruptions continue to shape the landscape of the Aegean region. The possibility of rockslides and further seismic disturbances remain a concern, and authorities are preparing for potential disaster response in case of escalated volcanic or earthquake activity.

As scientists continue to monitor these events, it’s clear that these areas are facing a rare combination of volcanic and seismic hazards, leading to heightened preparedness and emergency measures. Local and international experts are collaborating to mitigate risks and provide updates on both the earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.