Canary Islands on Edge: Recent Earthquakes Raise Volcanic Activity Concerns
A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck between Tenerife and Gran Canaria on Thursday, February 26, 2026, according to the Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN). The tremor, felt across both islands with an intensity of III-IV, has heightened awareness of seismic activity in the Canary Islands region.
The Recent Seismic Event: Details and Impact
The IGN reported the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers at 12:26 local time. It was felt in numerous municipalities across Tenerife, including Arona, Güímar, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and in several areas of Gran Canaria, such as Gáldar and Las Palmas. A smaller aftershock of magnitude 2 mbLg was recorded shortly after, at a shallower depth of 4 kilometers.
The epicenter of both earthquakes lies in the vicinity of the El Enmedio volcano, an underwater volcano situated between Tenerife and Gran Canaria. This area is known for frequent seismic events.
Historical Context: Past Earthquakes in the Region
This recent activity echoes past events, notably a magnitude 4.2 earthquake in the same area in 2019 – the largest recorded in the Canary Islands in recent years. The IGN continues to monitor the region closely.
Increased Activity Amidst Tenerife’s Seismic Swarms
The earthquake occurred during a period of increased seismic activity around Tenerife, specifically related to ongoing swarms near Mount Teide. While attention has been focused on Tenerife, the largest and deepest earthquakes have been occurring near the El Enmedio volcano.
Understanding Earthquake Intensity
The intensity of the earthquake, measured on the European macroseismic scale, reached levels III-IV. Intensity III indicates that the earthquake is felt by some people indoors, with slight swaying or trembling. Intensity IV means the earthquake is felt by many indoors and by a few outdoors, causing slight vibrations and rattling of objects.
According to the IGN, these intensity levels do not typically cause damage to buildings.
Monitoring Volcanic Activity in the Canary Islands
The IGN operates a seismic network in the Canary Islands, including the Tenerife-Gran Canaria Seismic Network (4L), established in 2023. This network, along with other monitoring tools like GNSS and InSAR, helps scientists track volcanic and seismic activity.
The IGN provides information on volcanic surveillance, including visualizers, news updates, and data on earthquakes and deformation. They too offer resources on volcanic hazards and what to do in the event of an earthquake.
Contact Information
For more information, you can contact the IGN’s Canary Islands Regional Service:
- Address: C/ La Marina 20 2º. Edificio de Servicios múltiples. Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Phone: +34 922 28 70 54 – 66
- Fax: +34 922 24 80 21
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if I feel an earthquake? The IGN recommends staying calm and seeking shelter under a sturdy table or doorway.
- Is the El Enmedio volcano a threat? While the volcano is currently underwater, the IGN continuously monitors its activity.
- Where can I uncover more information about seismic activity in the Canary Islands? Visit the IGN website: https://www.ign.es/web/vlc-area-volcanologia
