A magnitude 4.9 earthquake centered near Ksar el-Kébir, Morocco, rattled residents across Southern Spain on February 10, 2023, with tremors felt as far as six provinces including Cádiz and Huelva. The earthquake occurred around 23:49 hours, registering at a depth of 34 kilometers, causing no significant damage or injuries, but surprising many locals who reported feeling the earth shake.
Residents across multiple municipalities, particularly those within Sevilla, reported varied sensations of the earthquake. Antonio Sanz, the Consejero de la Presidencia, noted, "El 112 ha registrado un total de cinco llamadas de particulares. Lo habían sentidos dos en Sevilla, una en Mairena del Alcor, una en Mairena del Aljarafe y una en Bollullos Par del Condado." This statement highlights how widespread the sensation of the quake was, even if its intensity did not lead to any injuries or infrastructure damage.
From Andalucía's urban centers to its rural areas, the tremors were felt with intensity levels ranging from II to III. Specifically, localities such as Alcalá de Guadaíra, Guillena, and San Juan de Aznalfarache each experienced reports of shaking. Coastal towns like Estepona and Fuengirola also reported tremors, indicating the seismic event’s broad impact. Residents recounted stories on social media detailing the mild quakes, describing how lamps swayed and minor objects shifted, creating unease among those unaccustomed to seismic activity.
Interestingly, this occurrence is not altogether uncommon. Geological studies indicate such seismic events originating from Morocco are often felt across Southern Spain. The unique geological characteristics of the region—particularly clay soils and certain types of building structures—can amplify the intensity of vibrations felt from distant earthquakes.
Experts reinforce the relatively tame nature of this magnitude of seismic activity. Since the earthquake did not result in structural damage, it acts more as what experts term as 'background noise' within the geological behavior of this actively influenced corridor between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. They assert it's typical for weaker earthquakes from the Moroccan region to be perceived widely within Southern Spain where the geological settings allow it.
Emergency services have taken this opportunity to remind citizens of earthquake preparedness. The 112 emergency service published safety guidelines advising people to secure heavy furniture and to stay clear of window areas during shakes. If feeling tremors, it’s suggested to shelter under sturdy furniture and, post-incident, evacuate buildings cautiously to avoid risks from aftershocks. This proactive communication underlines the need for community awareness concerning seismic safeguards.
Authorities also emphasized the importance of being prepared—advocacy for basic emergency kits inclusive of first aid supplies, bottled water, and radios is being touted. They recommend families drill these safety procedures to instill confidence and knowledge on how to react should stronger seismic events occur.
After the quake, officials conducted assessments and reaffirmed the relative safety of the situation. Although the event served as a reminder of the earthquake risks posed by the nearby tectonic activities, it also underscored the importance of public awareness and preparedness. For now, Southern Spain residents have returned to their routines, reassured but ever mindful of the ground beneath their feet.