10 earthquakes recorded in 24 hours in the Canary Islands, two exceeding 3 magnitude


  • INVOLCAN / IGN
  • 06-09-2023
  • National
  • Photo Credit: IGN
10 earthquakes recorded in 24 hours in the Canary Islands, two exceeding 3 magnitude

Over the past 24 hours, the Canary Islands has experienced a series of seismic events that have caught the attention of seismology experts. According to the IGN, National Geographic Institute, a total of 10 earthquakes have been recorded in this short period of time, with two of them reaching magnitudes exceeding 3 degrees on the Richter scale.

These seismic events have raised concerns among the local population and prompted a deeper analysis by scientists responsible for monitoring activity in the region.

One of the most notable earthquakes occurred in the southwest of Cape San Vicente at 6:41pm yesterday (Monday) which registered a magnitude of 3.7 on the Richter scale at a depth of 35 kilometres. Not long before, at 5:24pm, another earthquake was recorded in the northeast of Guía de Isora, with a magnitude of 1.2 and a depth of 14 kilometres. These two initial events marked the beginning of a series of tremors that affected different parts of the Islands region in a short period of time.

During the evening, more earthquakes were recorded, including one in the south of La Guancha, with a magnitude of 1.0 and a depth of 19 kilometres, and two more occurred in the northeast of Guía de Isora very close together, both with a magnitude of 1.5. The repetition of these events in the same location is an interesting phenomenon that could indicate more continuous seismic activity in that area.

In the early hours of the morning, the island of El Hierro also experienced a series of earthquakes. Two in the southwest of El Pinar de El Hierro drew attention, with magnitudes of 2.5 and 3.2 on the Richter scale, both at a depth of 29 kilometres.

Additionally, more tremors were recorded in other areas, such as in the southeast of Mogán, with a magnitude of 1.9 and a depth of 31 kilometres. These seismic events highlight the dynamics of tectonic activity in the region.

Regarding the location, it is interesting to note that some of these earthquakes originated in underwater areas in the Atlantic near the Canary Islands. This is indicative of the complex interaction of tectonic plates in the region and underscores the importance of constant monitoring of seismic activity to assess potential risks.

Earthquakes in the Canary Islands archipelago are not uncommon, given that the region is situated in a seismically active zone due to its location at the convergence of the African, Eurasian, and American tectonic plates. However, the concentration of 10 ‘sizable’ earthquakes in a 24-hour period has drawn the attention of scientists and local authorities.

The analysis of these events is essential to better understand seismic activity in the region and evaluate any potential risks to the population and infrastructure.

Seismological studies in the Canary Islands are conducted in collaboration with various scientific institutions and government organizations with the aim of providing a solid understanding of tectonic dynamics in the region and delivering accurate information to the community.

It is important to note that seismic activity can be an indicator of ongoing geological processes, and does not always result in destructive events. Constant monitoring of earthquakes and detailed research enable scientists to take preventive measures and provide valuable information to the population to be prepared in case of any significant seismic event.

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