Scientists Discovered the Hidden Cause of 25,000 Earthquakes

Published: Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 1:00 pm

Scientists Uncover Cause of Earthquake Swarm in the Aegean Sea

A recent study published in the journal *Science* sheds light on the cause of a significant earthquake swarm that occurred in the Aegean Sea earlier this year. The study, conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL), investigated the seismic activity that resulted in approximately 25,000 tremors over a one-month period.

The research team utilized ground observation data and machine learning techniques to pinpoint the exact locations of each earthquake. Their findings revealed that the primary cause of the seismic unrest was the intrusion of magma into a reservoir beneath the Santorini caldera. This magma intrusion, originating from the deep crust, created a wave-like rebound effect, generating stress and triggering the numerous earthquakes.

The study details how magma sheets moved horizontally through a 20-kilometer-thick rock layer, described by the team as a "knife scraping over a piece of bread." This process, according to the researchers, was responsible for the widespread seismic activity. The team was able to rule out fault slippage as the main cause of the earthquakes.

The researchers suggest that this mechanism of magma intrusion may not be unique to Santorini. They believe it could be a fundamental process by which magma is transported beneath volcanoes globally.

BNN's Perspective:

This research provides valuable insight into the complex processes occurring beneath volcanic regions. While the findings are significant, it's important to remember that the area has a history of volcanic activity. The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and research to better understand and potentially mitigate the risks associated with volcanic and seismic events.

Keywords: earthquake swarm, Santorini, Aegean Sea, magma intrusion, volcano, seismic activity, Hellenic Volcanic Arc, Kolumbo, University College London, UCL, Nature, Science, Stephen Hicks, Eleftheria Papadimitriou, Greece, Richter scale, tremors, seismic, caldera, underwater volcano

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