Feb 19 • 18:25 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Ilta-Sanomat

Earthquakes in Tenerife – the holiday island prepares for the worst

Tenerife is experiencing unusual seismic activity, prompting preparation for potential volcanic eruptions.

Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, has been recorded with exceptional seismic activity recently, raising concerns among residents and authorities about possible volcanic eruptions. According to the local news outlet Canarian Weekly, there were over 1,400 small earthquakes registered between Monday night and Tuesday morning, specifically occurring in the western part of the Teide volcano caldera, at depths of 7 to 8 kilometers. The caldera itself is a large depression formed due to the collapse of the volcano and spans several kilometers in width.

Though the surge of earthquakes seems to have subsided, seismologists are still monitoring the area for sporadic signals that may indicate continued activity, as reported by the EFE news agency. Officials from the local volcanology institute have stated that the recent seismic occurrences are unlikely to lead to an eruption of Teide in the short or medium term. Their assessment suggests that the measured earthquakes are likely related to gas activity rather than magma movement, easing some immediate concerns about a possible eruption.

Preparedness for such an event is crucial for the local population and for tourism, which is a significant part of Tenerife's economy. The potential for volcanic eruptions can have widespread implications, not only for residents but also for the growing number of tourists on the island. Authorities are balancing the need for vigilance with the reassurance that current seismic activities do not imply an imminent eruption, striving to maintain safety while supporting the local economy and tourism during this period of uncertainty.

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