Recent seismic activity and ground deformation under the Teide volcano on Tenerife has heightened discussions among scientists about the potential for future eruptions, prompting calls for public preparedness.
Itahiza Domínguez, the director of the National Geographic Institute of the Canary Islands (IGN), provided insight on the current geological situation. According to Domínguez, the ground beneath Tenerife has risen by approximately one centimeter over the past year, which he noted is significant data compiled since structured observations began in 2016. While this geological uplift might raise eyebrows, he emphasized,
"The precursor events can occur in two or 50 years. Therefore, we must continue to observe.”
Domínguez did not want to incite alarm but acknowledged the volcano's inevitability of erupting some day, saying,
"Researchers are quite sure the Teide will erupt at some point; the question remains: when?" With increasing swarms of earthquakes near the Teide, the geological changes have sparked interest among scientists, though they do not necessarily indicate imminent eruption risk.
The Teide volcano, accompanied by its smaller surrounding volcanoes, remains active, and experts believe it’s likely the area will experience another eruption sooner or later. Despite this, current signs do not indicate any immediate danger, as stated by Domínguez during discussions with colleagues about the major geological developments taking place.
The potential for eruptions is compounded by increased seismic activity observed recently. The Scientific Committee for the Assessment and Monitoring of Volcanic Phenomena (CCES) is actively discussing the new geophysical and geochemical measurement results gathered over the past year. This includes findings of increased carbon dioxide emissions alongside ground uplift of about 10 millimeters.
Despite the current worries, Domínguez reassured the public about the situation, noting,
"The uplift is minor but scientifically significant, indicating slight pressure build-up within the volcanic-hydrothermal system of the largest volcano of the Canary Islands." He stated the geological changes signal the possibility of future eruptions but insisted there is no indication of any immediate danger.
Domínguez also pointed out the difference between the current situation and the rapid ground uplift observed before the La Palma eruption, where measurements indicated ground moving 30 centimeters prior to the explosion. Scientists on La Palma observed strong earthquake swarms leading to significant alarm. They would expect similar precursors before any eruption of the Teide.
The region experienced numerous earthquakes last week, with over 53 seismic events documented, predominantly on Tenerife and surrounding areas. The most substantial earthquake recorded had a magnitude of 2.1. Over 30 earthquakes occurred under the Pico del Teide, where increased seismicity signals heightened activity.
Meanwhile, the volcanic threat assessment for Tenerife currently remains at Green, the lowest alert level. Local geological experts continue to keep watchful eyes on the Pico del Teide, which is the highest peak not only of the Canary Islands but also of Spain. Dominantly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Teide last erupted from a lateral crater back in 1909.
The Teide’s potential eruptions are closely monitored due to its tourist significance and geological importance. With the natural world and inhabitants nearby, authorities stress the importance of public awareness. This includes drills and measures to prepare the population for potential volcanic activity, as lessons from La Palma’s recent eruption ring fresh.
While the escalation of seismic activity and ground deformation at Teide has scientists alert, they also recognize the need for stability between concerns and clarity. The increasing scientific dialogue is meant to inform the public without inciting panic, preparing communities for any eventualities as this potentially threatening geological environment evolves.