A magnitude 3.2 earthquake was recorded off the coast of Fuerteventura on Friday morning, according to local reports. Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN) detected the tremor at 5:06 am local time, identifying its epicentre approximately five kilometres beneath the seabed.
Seismic data reviewed
Seismologists at the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) are also reviewing seismic data from the event. Though low in magnitude, the IGN noted that the tremor was strong enough to have been felt by local residents, particularly those inside buildings.
Earthquakes in the region typically average a magnitude of 1.9. The event follows a total of 48 earthquakes registered across the archipelago over the past 30 days—an average of 1.6 per day. Ten tremors were recorded in the last week alone, which experts consider standard activity for the Canaries, reports The Express.
Revised measurements
The IGN initially calculated the earthquake at magnitude 3.0 and a depth of four kilometres before subsequently revising the measurements to magnitude 3.2 and five kilometres deep as additional seismic data were analysed. No injuries or damage have been reported so far.
Authorities in the Canary Islands are continuing to closely monitor seismic activity and ground deformation across the archipelago, with experts stressing that clusters of earthquakes do not necessarily signal an increased volcanic threat.
Preparedness in Tenerife
Scientists are paying particular attention to conditions in another area of the Canary Islands archipelago, Tenerife. Amid concerns over increased tremors around Mount Teide, Tenerife Island Council is organising emergency exercises designed to test the island's preparedness for a potential volcanic eruption.
The drills, which simulate a range of emergency scenarios, are due to take place in Guía de Isora and La Laguna. Researchers have also identified a substantial magma reservoir beneath Pico Viejo, one of Mount Teide's secondary volcanic structures.
However, scientists have cautioned against linking all recent seismic events to volcanic activity. The Spanish National Geographic Institute (IGN) previously concluded that a series of earthquakes recorded north of Punta del Hidalgo on Tenerife's northern coastline were tectonic in origin rather than volcanic. At least two of those offshore tremors were felt by residents on land.
