El Hierro : New Year Earthquake Activity

The El Hierro Volcano / Earthquake situation seemed to disappear from the mainstream national and international news in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Although it was clear that the activity was becoming less 'newsworthy' a number of questions were left unanswered - most of all finding some kind of satisfactory resolution to the issue rather than simply leaving the issue to fizzle out.

Since 00.00 Hrs on News Year's Day Spain's National Geological Institute have recorded a total of 8 earthquakes on the island itself, and a further 5 in the wider area around the Canary Islands as a whole.

The activity on the island itself took place on the Nothern & Western sides, as in previous weeks it was spread between Pinar and Frontera and strectching into the El Golfo bay, with magnitudes ranging from between 1.7 and 2.5 on the richter scale and at depths of between 11 - 20 kms.

Under normal circumstances this activity may very well have made the national press, however, it is very typical of the ongoing earthquake swarm which has now seen over 11'400 activities and began on 17th July - just short of 6 months ago.

The activity away from the island has caused slightly more concern : For one, it is a departure from the trend seen in the recent earthquake swarm on El Hierro; and two, the instensities have been greater. The magnitudes ranged from between 2.0 to 3.7 on the richter scale and at a wide range of depths. Some of the Earthquakes were felt on different Islands.

As one may expect, this change in activity and location has sparked a new wave of panic in those who remain convinced that a mega-Tsunami in imminent >>>>

As far as the volcanic activity to the south of El Hierro is concerned, the eruptions in the las Calmas bay area off the coast of La Restinga are continuing at a subdued level, however the stain, jacuzzi and gases are being produced at a much lower rate than was seen at the beginning of November. Oceanic research vessels and PEVOLVA scientists remain in the area, but there is little else happening that would interest anyone but the enthusiastic amateur seismologist.

Read previous news stories about the El Hierro Volcano by clicking the link HERE .