Ankara: extended school closures Saturday to four islands by one week after recent seismic activity in the region, according to public broadcaster ERT. A committee of officials and experts decided to prolong closures on the islands of Santorini, Ios, Anafi, and Amorgos as a precautionary measure.

According to Anadolu Agency, schools on the islands had initially closed on Feb. 3 due to seismic activity. Authorities have canceled all public events and advised residents to avoid gathering in enclosed spaces as a precaution against a potential major earthquake.

Search and rescue teams, drones, and generators have been dispatched to affected areas to bolster emergency preparedness.