A 5-magnitude seismic event, with its epicenter in Alhendín (Granada) and at a depth of 2 kilometers, woke the province early Saturday morning. The tremor, recorded at 1:04 AM, was felt in practically all Andalusian provinces, with the notable exceptions of Cádiz and Huelva. More than 40 aftershocks followed the main quake, concentrated in towns within the metropolitan area of Granada such as Gójar, Otura, Alhendín, Ogíjares, Churriana de la Vega, Armilla, Dílar, and La Zubia, according to the National Geographic Institute.
Given the magnitude of the event, the Regional Government of Andalusia (Junta de Andalucía) has activated the emergency phase, operational situation 1, of the Seismic Risk Plan. The Minister of Presidency, Health, and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz, announced this measure to enhance monitoring and resource coordination. According to Sanz, the earthquake prompted over 200 calls to the 112 emergency service and caused landslides and rescues, but fortunately, no personal injuries or hospital admissions have been reported.
The Emergency Agency of Andalusia (EMA) is coordinating actions in conjunction with the Provincial Council of Granada and the affected town councils. Firefighters and police are assessing damage in critical points to ensure pedestrian safety and have urged the public to respect the instructions of security forces and avoid affected areas.
Sanz also indicated that the Group of Volunteer Architects of Andalusia will be convened to analyze the condition of buildings damaged by the tremor, and contact is maintained with the Andalusian Institute of Geophysics. The regional government advises the population to remain calm, avoid entering and exiting buildings, and stay clear of elements like facades, cornices, or walls due to the risk of falling debris.
The earthquake was particularly felt in the province of Granada, the Coast of Almería and Málaga, and various parts of Jaén. It is recalled that Cádiz has a moderate seismic risk, according to experts, with the potential for conditions to arise that release energy more intensely in larger faults.
