Teide Seismic Swarm: 90+ Earthquakes Recorded
- The Teide - Pico Viejo Volcanic Complex in Tenerife, Canary Islands, is experiencing minor seismic activity and slight land deformation in its northeast sector, as detected since 2024.
- The National Geographic Institute (IGN) has identified fifteen small earthquakes occurring within the volcanic complex.
- While these events are noteworthy, the IGN emphasizes that they do not currently suggest an imminent eruption.
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teide Volcano: Minor earthquakes and Land Deformation Detected in Tenerife
Table of Contents
Updated 2024-08-31 10:49:01 UTC
Overview
The Teide – Pico Viejo Volcanic Complex in Tenerife, Canary Islands, is experiencing minor seismic activity and slight land deformation in its northeast sector, as detected since 2024. Despite these observations, authorities report no current indications of an increased probability of volcanic eruption in the short or medium term.
Seismic Activity and Land Deformation
The National Geographic Institute (IGN) has identified fifteen small earthquakes occurring within the volcanic complex. These earthquakes registered magnitudes between 0.2 and 0.8 on the Richter scale. Concurrently, subtle deformation of the land surface has been observed in the northeast sector. The IGN is actively monitoring these changes using a network of sensors.
While these events are noteworthy, the IGN emphasizes that they do not currently suggest an imminent eruption. Similar episodes of seismic and deformation activity have been recorded in the past without leading to volcanic unrest.
Eruption Probability Assessment
According to the latest assessment, the probability of a volcanic eruption in Tenerife remains low to moderate. The Canary Islands Volcanic Emergency Plan (PEVOLCA) maintains a constant state of vigilance, and protocols are in place to respond to any escalation in volcanic activity. The current alert level is yellow, indicating a normal level of activity.
The IGN utilizes a extensive monitoring system, including seismographs, GPS stations, gas emission sensors, and satellite imagery, to track the volcano’s behavior. Data from these sources are continuously analyzed to detect any changes that might indicate an increased risk of eruption.
Past Context and Teide’s Volcanic History
Teide is Spain’s highest peak and an active, though currently dormant, volcano. The last eruption occurred in 1909 from the El Chinyero vent on the northwest flank of Teide. Prior to that, the most notable eruption took place in 1798, causing substantial lava flows and impacting nearby settlements.
The Teide – pico Viejo complex has a long and complex volcanic history, shaped by centuries of eruptions and caldera collapses. Understanding this history is crucial for assessing future volcanic hazards.
| Eruption Year | Vent Location | VEI (Volcanic Explosivity Index) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | El Chinyero | 1 | Small eruption with lava flows. |
| 1798 | Chahorra | 2 | Significant eruption with lava flows impacting settlements. |
| ~1706 | Montaña Pelada | 1 | Eruption with lava flows. |