The Canary Islands: Earthquake tremors hits holiday island La Palma as expert warns likelihood of future earthquakes could not be ruled out

An earthquake was reported on one of the islands of a popular holiday destination yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 4 June). The National Geographic Institute (IGN) reported a 2.2 magnitude earthquake in the vicinity of the Tajogaite volcano on La Palma, in the Canary Islands. 

This is the strongest tremor in the area since the last eruption in 2021. The earthquake reached a maximum intensity of IV (moderate) and was felt by residents in several locations across the island. Last week a warning was issued about a “seismic swarm” of tremors that could be on its way to the islands.

According to the IGN report, it occurred at 1:29pm and was primarily felt in Las Manchas and San José (Breña Baja), with lesser intensity reports from Jedey, La Laguna, San Nicolás, Todoque, and Paso de Abajo. According to The Canarian Weekly, the epicentre was initially identified in the now-buried neighbourhood of Todoque which currently lies under a thick layer of lava from the 2021 eruption.

Three additional minor tremors were also recorded in El Paso earlier in the morning with magnitudes ranging from 0.8 to 1.3 at depths between 4 and 9 kilometres - but these smaller quakes were not felt by the population of the island. The Mercalli intensity scale, which measures the effects of earthquakes, ranges from I (very weak) to XII (extreme). 

The earthquake on Tuesday afternoon was an intensity IV quake which is classified as moderate, meaning it is capable of causing noticeable disturbances such as rattling of crockery, doors and windows, and even slight movement of parked vehicles. Itahiza Domínguez, the director of the IGN in the Canary Islands and a seismology expert, confirmed that the earthquakes are probably related to the ongoing settlement of lava flows deposited during the 2021 eruption. 

He added that the possibility of future felt earthquakes could not be ruled out. Residents on the island are being advised to stay informed about seismic activity and follow guidelines from local authorities to ensure safety and preparedness.