Intense seismic activity near Teide in Tenerife has once again drawn the attention of experts and residents across the Canary Islands. Nearly a thousand tremors were recorded in a single night, marking the most intense episode in recent months. This event is significant for Spain, as such phenomena can impact the safety, tourism, and economy of the region.
According to El Día, the series of seismic events began around midnight and lasted for at least eight hours. During this time, sensors picked up numerous minor earthquakes and recurring seismic pulses. Since the activity resumed, the total number of events has surpassed six thousand. Despite the scale, none reached a high magnitude, and most tremors were so weak they were not felt by residents or visitors on the island.
Where the tremors are occurring
The centers of activity, as in previous cases, were located to the west of the Las Cañadas area, at depths ranging from eight to ten kilometers. The previous swarm, recorded over the weekend, lasted more than forty hours but was less intense overall. In recent days, experts have noted several events with slightly greater energy, but all remain within the typical patterns for this volcanic region.
Seismologists emphasize that such swarms are not uncommon for Tenerife. They are linked to the movement of magma and gases in the deeper layers, but do not always result in eruptions. This time, despite the number of events, the parameters remain within the normal range for the island.
Expert and Authority Reactions
Over the past two weeks, activity has remained at a high level, raising concerns among local residents and tourists. However, the scientific community is working to prevent panic. Representatives of the National Geographic Institute (Instituto Geográfico Nacional, IGN), after meeting with the island’s authorities and municipalities, confirmed that the likelihood of an eruption in the near future is extremely low. The monitoring system is operating at an enhanced level to promptly detect any changes.
IGN director Itahiza Domínguez explained that most events are so small they are difficult to detect even with instruments. According to him, the real number of tremors may be higher, as some overlap and are not always distinguishable on charts. Authorities continue to keep the public informed and urge everyone to remain calm.
What’s Happening in Tenerife
Seismic swarms have been regularly recorded in Tenerife since 2016. During this time, specialists have observed eight such episodes, each sparking interest and concern. However, none of them have led to an eruption. According to RUSSPAIN.COM, the current activity remains within the usual processes for this volcanic complex.
In recent years, the Canary Islands have experienced various manifestations of volcanic activity. For example, in 2021, an eruption on La Palma became the most destructive in decades. Thousands of people were evacuated, and the island’s infrastructure suffered significant damage. On Tenerife, despite regular seismic swarms, the situation remains stable, and scientists continue to closely monitor changes in underground activity.
