IGN register six earthquakes in the last few hours between Tenerife and Gran Canaria
A series of small earthquakes has been recorded in recent hours between the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, according to Spain’s Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN).
The IGN has confirmed that six earthquakes were detected on Saturday, 20th December, occurring at different times from the early morning through to the afternoon. Two of the tremors were slightly stronger than the rest, registering magnitudes of 2.8 and 2.1 on the Richter scale.
The largest quake, measuring 2.8 magnitude, took place at 5.59pm at a depth of around 7 kilometres beneath the seabed between the two islands. The most recent event was recorded at 6:26pm, at a deeper level of approximately 16 kilometres.
Ongoing seismic activity in the Canary Islands
Over the last four days, the IGN has logged more than 20 low-magnitude earthquakes across different parts of the Canary Islands. None of these tremors have exceeded 2.8 magnitude, and most are so small that they are not felt by residents or visitors.
The Canary Islands sit on a volcanic hotspot, rather than a traditional tectonic plate boundary. As a result, small earthquakes are relatively common and are usually linked to natural movements of magma or stress adjustments within the Earth’s crust. This type of seismic activity is closely monitored but does not, in most cases, indicate an imminent volcanic eruption.
Following the 2021 volcanic eruption on La Palma, monitoring systems across the archipelago were further strengthened. The IGN, along with other scientific bodies, uses a network of seismic stations to track even the smallest ground movements in real time.
Reassurance for residents and tourists
Experts stress that minor seismic swarms are a normal geological feature of the Canary Islands. Events of this magnitude are considered routine and do not pose a risk to public safety. There have been no reports of damage, injuries, or disruption linked to the recent earthquakes.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates should there be any significant change. For now, both residents and visitors are advised that there is no cause for concern.
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