Eruption possible in Tenerife

"Specialists of different branches and institutions have analyzed the data closely and we have come to the conclusion that, no doubt, there is movement in the magma and there could be an eruption in the near future. This is normal in an area with volcanic activity, such as the Canaries", advises Gran Canarian volcanologist, Vicente Arana.

Experts yesterday held an emergency meeting to asses the situation, after an abnormal increase in seismic activity and gas emissions recently, mostly within the last five weeks.

Tuesday five tremors were registered in Tenerife, all in the area of Icod de Los Vinos, in the northwest of the Island, although only one of them was felt by population. It measured 3 degrees on the Richter scale. Technicians have been on the island for several days, positioning further precision instruments in the areas that have registered the most movement; in the peaks of Santiago del Teide, Icod de los Vinos y La Orotava.

Experts and Government institutions alike are appealing for calm.

The Institute of Renewable Energy rates the findings as "not worrying" and Island Corporation President, Ricardo Melchior, is quoted as saying "... you have to take into account that in a volcanic territory there is always movement under our feet".

There were three similar occurrences in the Canaries in the 20th Century. Yesterday was a quiet day: whilst several movements were detected, they were of a very low intensity.

Full stories: La Opinion de Tenerife (Spanish)

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