On the morning of Monday, October 21, 2024, a magnitude 2,9 earthquake has shaken the Pamplona region and its surroundings, causing a slight alarm among the residents of several towns in the Navarre region. The epicenter of the earthquake was recorded in Lizoain-Arriasgoiti, an area located approximately 19 kilometres from the capital of Navarre, according to the National Geographic Institute (IGN).
The earthquake occurred at 08:52 hours, at a shallow depth of 0 kilometers, which means that the movement occurred practically at the level of the Earth's surface, making it more noticeable to the population than in other cases where earthquakes occur at greater depths.
Localities affected by the earthquake
El earthquake was felt in numerous towns in the Pamplona region. Among the most affected municipalities are: Burlada, Huarte, Villava, Sarriguren, Noain, Monreal, Egues and of course, the own Pamplona. Despite the moderate magnitude of the tremor, residents noticed a clear vibration that was accompanied in many cases by a loud noise, similar to that of a large object falling to the ground, which sparked some concern.
In total, the earthquake was felt in a total of 16 municipalities, although no material damage or injuries have been reported. Local emergency services and Civil Protection did not activate emergency measures beyond the usual surveillance, since this type of earthquake does not usually cause serious consequences.
Recurrent seismic activity in the area
This earthquake is not a isolated event in the region. Since 2020, the area of Lizoain-Arriasgoiti has been the scene of a swarm of seismic activity that has generated up to a thousand small tremors. Many of these movements have not been perceptible, but over the years, several tremors of similar intensity have alarmed the local population, who have kept a constant watch on seismic activity in the region.
In fact, according to the geologist, Antonio Aretxabalala, This is the earthquake number 84 felt by the population since August 2020, within a total of more than 900 earthquakes recorded in the area during this period. These figures reflect a seismic activity that, although not entirely common in Navarre, continues to keep scientists in charge of monitoring telluric phenomena on alert.
A situation without damage but which generates concern
Although the earthquake was of low intensity and did not cause structural damage, it is common for this type of seismic event to occur. generate unrest among the inhabitants of the region, especially those who live near the epicenter. The testimonies of the neighbors tell how the earthquake surprised many in the middle of the morning, when in certain places a loud explosion was heard.
The National Geographic Institute (IGN) has indicated that the maximum intensity of the earthquake was degree III in the European Macroseismic Intensity Scale (EMS), which is equivalent to a level of shaking that is perceived inside buildings, but does not cause significant material damage. Only a few people at rest or in situations of low physical activity were able to perceive the movement, although hanging objects may have swayed slightly.
The geological context of Navarra
Navarra is not one of the regions best known for its seismic activity in Spain, but its proximity to geological fault active causes it to experience occasional tremors. The case of Lizoáin-Arriasgoiti, with several earthquakes recorded between 2020 and 2021, has alerted geologists, who suspect that there are earthquakes in this area unmapped faults which could be responsible for the recurring seismic activity.
This situation has led the competent authorities and the IGN to remain constantly vigilant in order to anticipate any larger event that could have more serious consequences for the population.
Recommendations from the authorities
The local authorities The Department of Public Safety and Civil Protection has reminded the population of the basic measures that must be taken in the event of a more intense tremor. It is essential to remain calm, as well as to stay away from objects that could fall or become detached. If you are inside a building, it is advisable not to run away, but to take shelter in a safe place, preferably under a sturdy piece of furniture or in areas far from windows.
In any case, this event has been a reminder to both the population and institutions of the potential that these phenomena have, reminding them that, although they are generally not devastating, they can cause concern and it is important to be prepared.
El earthquake The earthquake that shook the region of Pamplona and other nearby towns this morning, although of minor magnitude, highlights a Seismic activity that does not cease in the regionAs has been demonstrated on previous occasions, Navarra is an area susceptible to earthquakes and it is necessary that both the population and the authorities continue to take the necessary precautions.