Thousands rush to evacuate Santorini after hundreds of earthquakes

The popular tourist spot is being evacuated

Over 300 earthquakes have been recorded near the island over the last 48 hours, and emergency measures are being taken as a precaution.

Local media reports that over 6,000 people had fled via ferry after experts issued warnings over the earthquakes, which have seen tremors measuring up to magnitude 4.7.

No major damage has been recorded so far, but schools have been closed and people have been advised against large indoor gatherings.

An additional 2,500 to 2,700 people are said to have flown from Santorini to Athens, according to Aegean Airlines.

Although Santorini is incredibly popular among tourists, it only has a population of 15,500.

Schools are set to remain closed until Friday, with residents also being urged to avoid certain areas of the island and to drain their swimming pools.

Santorini is on the Hellenic Volcanic Arc. This is a chain of islands that were created by volcanoes, but it saw its last major eruption in the 1950s.

Authorities say the recent tremors are due to tectonic rather than volcanic activity. However, scientists cannot currently predict the location, size or exact timing of earthquakes.

Nikos Zorzos, the mayor of Santorini, said that the seismic activity "may last many weeks" and the island was prepared for this.

He urged the island to approach the situation "with patience and calm", and confirmed that there were plans to provide shelters and food should the situation deteriorate.