The National Geographic Institute (IGN) has recorded around 90 seismic events beneath Mount Teide since Saturday, 7 February, concentrated in the western sector of Las Cañadas del Teide. Despite the relatively high number of earthquakes detected over a short period of time, experts stress that this activity falls within the normal behaviour of Tenerife’s active volcanic system.
According to IGN sources, the events correspond mainly to low-frequency seismic pulses, with some hybrid earthquakes interspersed. These signals have been located at depths of approximately 10 to 12 kilometres, an area where similar seismic episodes have been observed on multiple occasions in recent years.
A familiar pattern in an active volcanic system
Specialists explain that this type of seismicity is not unusual in Tenerife. The island sits on an active volcanic structure where underground processes continue even in the absence of surface eruptions.
The IGN notes that although around 90 events have been identified over the last three days, the exact number is sometimes difficult to determine due to overlapping signals, particularly during periods of heightened activity.
Key seismic episodes over the weekend
Among the most notable sequences, the IGN highlights a cluster of earthquakes recorded on Saturday between 6:25 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., as well as a longer-lasting seismic signal detected on Monday at 10:23 a.m. These episodes stand out due to their duration and signal characteristics rather than their magnitude.
Experts explain that low-frequency and hybrid signals are typically associated with the movement of fluids at depth, such as magma-related gases or hydrothermal fluids. This is a common process in active volcanic systems, including that of Tenerife, and does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption.
No signs of abnormal volcanic evolution
Based on the data analysed so far, the IGN reports that there are no indications of a significant change in the state of Tenerife’s volcanic system. Ground deformation, gas emissions and other monitored parameters remain within expected ranges, according to current assessments.
Nevertheless, the agency continues to maintain constant surveillance of seismic and volcanic activity across the island. Monitoring efforts focus on the evolution of these signals and their possible interaction with other geophysical indicators.
Ongoing monitoring and scientific vigilance
The IGN, in coordination with other scientific bodies such as Involcan, continues to analyse the island’s underground dynamics in real time. This long-term monitoring allows experts to distinguish between normal background activity and signals that could suggest a meaningful change in volcanic behaviour.
For now, scientists emphasise that the recorded earthquakes reflect natural internal processes within Tenerife’s volcanic system and do not pose any immediate risk to the population.
