Fiery Magma Link Discovered Between Santorini Volcanoes
Recent studies from June 2024 to February 2025 have revealed underground connection between two neighbouring volcanoes near Greece’s Santorini Island. An intense swarm of earthquakes and surface changes have shown that the same magma source feeds both the Santorini and Kolumbo volcanoes. This insight improves understanding of volcanic behaviour and risk management in the region.
Seismic Activity and Surface Changes
Over 1,200 earthquakes struck the Santorini region in early 2025. These tremors began in July 2024 with the island’s surface swelling by several centimetres. This swelling indicated magma rising into Santorini’s shallow reservoir. The earthquakes initially clustered near Santorini then moved northeast. GPS data showed both Santorini and Kolumbo volcanoes deflating simultaneously. This pattern suggested magma movement from a deeper reservoir feeding both volcanoes.
Shared Magma Plumbing System
The study confirmed a shared magmatic plumbing system between Santorini and Kolumbo volcanoes. Magma flows from a deep crustal source first towards Santorini before moving away, causing both volcanoes to deflate. This is the first direct observation of such a connection. It challenges previous views of volcanoes acting independently and shows complex underground interactions.
Historical and Geological Context
Santorini’s catastrophic eruption around 1560 B.C. ended the Minoan civilisation and caused earthquakes, tsunamis and possibly a volcanic winter. Kolumbo last erupted in 1650 A.D. Both volcanoes remain active and pose risks to the region. The recent seismic swarm led Greece to declare a state of emergency due to fears of an eruption, though none occurred.
Implications for Volcano Monitoring
The discovery marks the need for real-time, high-resolution monitoring of volcanoes. Shared magma systems complicate eruption predictions since activity in one volcano can affect its neighbour. About these underground links can improve early warning systems. Similar magmatic connections may exist in other volcanic regions such as Hawaii, Iceland and Kamchatka.
Broader Impact on Volcanology
This finding advances knowledge of how volcanoes interact beneath the surface. It suggests that volcanic systems should be studied as interconnected networks rather than isolated entities. This approach can refine hazard assessments and disaster preparedness worldwide.
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