New Seismic Swarm Detected at Teide Volcano
The Canary Islands Seismic Network, operated by the Volcanological Institute of the Canary Islands (Involcan), detected a new seismic swarm at the Teide volcano on Saturday afternoon. The event consisted of more than ninety micro-earthquakes of very low magnitude, offering a fascinating glimpse into the active geological processes shaping the island.
Details of the Seismic Activity
The tremors were recorded by the TNOR seismic station, located on the northern face of the volcano, between 5:14 PM and 6:26 PM local Canary Islands time. According to Involcan, these volcano-tectonic events are caused by the fracturing of rock deep within the island’s volcanic system.
Part of a Recurring Volcanic Process
This recent episode is part of the recurrent seismic activity the island has been experiencing since June 2017. During this period, more than 120 similar seismic swarms have been recorded. As with previous instances, Involcan confirms the origin is linked to a pressurization process within Tenerife’s volcanic-hydrothermal system, driven by the injection of magmatic fluids.
Scientific Data Supports Findings
This ongoing process, observed repeatedly since 2016, is backed by independent geochemical and geophysical data. Key indicators include an increase in the diffuse emission of carbon dioxide from the Teide crater and a slight ground deformation detected since 2024 in the northeast sector of the Teide-Pico Viejo volcanic complex.
No Increased Eruption Risk
For residents and travelers, Involcan offers reassuring news: no signs have been detected that suggest an increase in the probability of a volcanic eruption in Tenerife in the short or medium term. The National Geographic Institute also detected fifteen of these small earthquakes, with magnitudes ranging between 0.2 and 0.8, confirming the minor nature of this activity.
