Over 200 earthquakes recorded in the Canary Islands during August
The Canary Islands experienced a total of 213 earthquakes during August, according to the latest monthly report from the National Geographic Institute (IGN). This figure marks a sharp rise compared to the 125 tremors recorded in July. Importantly, none of the seismic activity was felt by the population.
The strongest earthquake of the month, with a magnitude of 2.9 on the Richter scale, had its epicentre offshore to the east of Gran Canaria, at a depth of 20 kilometres.
Activity centred on Tenerife
The majority of seismic activity occurred beneath Tenerife, where 122 tremors were registered, with magnitudes ranging from -0.3 to 1.8 (mbLg). Two notable seismic swarms took place around Las Cañadas del Teide, near Pico Viejo:
- 7 August: Beginning at 2:00am, lasting over three hours, with more than 700 microearthquakes of very low magnitude.
- 30 August: Lasting just over an hour, producing 42 detections, 19 of which were located at depths of around 5 kilometres. The strongest registered magnitude was 0.8 (mbLg).
Despite this increased activity, the Canary Islands Volcanology Institute (Involcan) has stressed that there are no indications of an imminent eruption in the short or medium term.
Seismicity in other islands
- Between Gran Canaria and Tenerife (Enmedio submarine volcano): 57 earthquakes, magnitudes 1.0–2.3, with depths of up to 71 kilometres.
- La Palma: 13 tremors, magnitudes 1.1–1.9, mainly in areas affected by the 2021 volcanic eruption and the central Cumbre Vieja region.
- El Hierro: 3 offshore tremors west of the island, magnitudes 1.9–2.5, at depths greater than 15 kilometres.
Monitoring continues
IGN confirms that geodetic observations and satellite data analysis show no significant ground deformation linked to volcanic activity across the islands. The subtle changes recorded in Tenerife’s central zone since 2023 remain stable, but scientists emphasise that long-term monitoring is essential for assessing future evolution.
For now, experts assure residents and visitors that seismic activity remains within normal parameters for the Canary Islands, a region naturally prone to frequent but usually imperceptible earthquakes.
Why You Shouldn’t Worry About Earthquakes in the Canary Islands
- The Canary Islands regularly experience small earthquakes because of their volcanic origin. Most are so weak that they cannot be felt.
- Experts from IGN and Involcan confirm there are no signs of volcanic activity that could lead to an eruption in the short or medium term.
- The islands have one of the most advanced volcanic and seismic monitoring networks in Europe, providing 24/7 surveillance.
- These events take place deep underground or offshore, and life on the islands continues as normal.
Earthquakes in the Canaries are a natural and closely monitored phenomenon. Visitors can enjoy their holidays without concern.
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