4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Between Tenerife and Gran Canaria

Experts say it is not related to the seismicity recorded at Teide

The National Geographic Institute reported a magnitude‑4.4 earthquake that occurred at midday, precisely at 12:26 a.m., in the area between Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Although seismic activity is common in the region, this event surprised because of its intensity and because a magnitude‑2.0 aftershock followed four minutes later. The main shock originated at a depth of 10 km on the seabed, while the aftershock was recorded at a depth of 4 km.

Experts stress that these movements have nothing to do with volcanic activity or the seismic swarms observed in recent days on the island of Tenerife. The real possibility of an eruption at Teide in the short term is zero, although the movements continue to be monitored closely.

The Enmedio volcano is a submarine volcano located in the channel between Tenerife and Gran Canaria. It has a base several kilometres wide and lies at depths exceeding 2,000 m. This structure has not had recent eruptions in recorded history, but it has been responsible for notable earthquakes in the past, such as the 1989 quake generated in the same area.

The channel between Tenerife and Gran Canaria experiences recurrent seismic activity linked to faults and tectonic stresses within the African plate, on which the Canary archipelago sits.

Why Was It Felt So Strongly?

A magnitude‑4.1 earthquake may seem moderate numerically, but when its epicentre is shallow and close to populated areas—as was the case on Thursday—it can be clearly felt and even cause concern among residents.

Moreover, the perception of the tremor is amplified by the geological conditions of the ground, especially in zones with sedimentary or more plastic rocks, which can facilitate the transmission and intensification of seismic waves.