A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck Cazalla de la Sierra, Andalusia, at 3:29 AM, affecting nearly 200 towns across multiple provinces. Residents experienced significant tremors, leading to widespread alarm and emergency service calls. The region, while not commonly subjected to large earthquakes, remains vulnerable due to its tectonic activity.
In the early hours of Thursday, a significant earthquake occurred in the Spanish holiday region of Andalusia, registering a magnitude of 4.1. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in Cazalla de la Sierra, Sevilla, as reported by the National Geographic Institute (IGN). Tremors were experienced in nearly 200 towns across the provinces of Sevilla, Huelva, Cordoba, and Badajoz, awakening many residents from their sleep.
The IGN indicated that the quake struck at approximately 3:29 AM at a depth of 10 kilometers. Adrian Torres, the mayor of Cazalla de la Sierra, described the earthquake as being “felt quite strongly” in the area. Eyewitnesses recounted a startling experience, describing the trepidation they felt during the tremors.
One resident, E. Mendoza, shared, “It was exactly 3:29 in the morning when everything started to shake. We woke up with the tremors and the noise, it was like a washing machine. It lasted for almost a minute. It was a tremendous scare.” Another individual mentioned the chaotic moments following the quake, stating, “Everything was shaking, even the windows. The feeling of confusion was great, especially because it catches you in the middle of your sleep.”
Moreover, the 112 Andalusia emergency service managed numerous calls from concerned residents, many of whom had been abruptly awakened. While large seismic events in Andalusia are relatively rare, the region does experience minor tremors due to its geographical proximity to tectonically active zones, such as the Gibraltar Belt and adjacent fault lines. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.
The recent earthquake in Andalusia highlighted the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, despite the rarity of such significant events. The widespread alarm and community response underscore the necessity for prompt communication during natural disasters. As residents regain their composure, concerns surrounding seismic safety and preparedness remain pertinent for the future.
Original Source: www.mirror.co.uk
