3.2 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Estepona This Morning
The seismic event, registered at 6:00 AM in Bahía Dorada, caused no material or personal damage
A 3.2 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale affected Estepona early this morning, with its epicenter in the Bahía Dorada area, according to Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN). The tremor, which occurred at 6:00 AM on Monday, December 1st, caused no personal injuries or material damage thanks to its depth.
The seismic event originated 52 kilometers below the surface, a determining factor that explains why its effects on the ground were moderate and did not generate significant incidents in the Estepona municipality.
Characteristics of the Seismic Movement
The National Geographic Institute registered the telluric movement in the Bahía Dorada area, on the outskirts of Estepona’s municipal district. The 3.2 magnitude places this earthquake in the range of seismic events that can be perceived by the population, especially in multi-story buildings, but which rarely cause structural damage.
The depth of the hypocenter, located 52 kilometers underground, was key to minimizing the tremor’s impact. More superficial earthquakes usually generate more intense effects on the surface, while those occurring at greater depths, as in this case, dissipate much of their energy before reaching inhabited areas.
No Damage Reports
To date, no emergency calls related to the seismic event have been registered, nor have material damages been reported in infrastructures or homes in Estepona and its metropolitan area. Local authorities and Civil Protection services are keeping the situation under control and continue monitoring any possible aftershocks.
Seismic Activity on the Costa del Sol
The Western Costa del Sol is located in a zone with moderate seismic activity due to its proximity to the Azores-Gibraltar fault, one of the main contact zones between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. Although earthquakes are relatively frequent in the region, most have low magnitudes and pose no danger to the population.
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What to Do in Case of an Earthquake
Civil Protection authorities and the Junta de Andalucía recommend that citizens know the basic self-protection measures for future seismic movements.
Before an Earthquake: Preparation
Secure furniture and objects that could fall: shelves, lamps, pictures, mirrors, or televisions
Avoid placing heavy objects (flower pots, books, vases) in high places
Learn to shut off gas, water, and electricity valves in your home
Prepare an emergency kit with first aid supplies, flashlight, bottled water, battery-powered radio, and whistle
Identify safe zones in your home: under solid tables, next to pillars or load-bearing walls
Establish a family plan and set a safe meeting point after an earthquake
During an Earthquake: Stay Calm
Inside a building:
Drop, cover, and hold on: get down on the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on
Stay away from windows and objects that could fall
Do not use the elevator under any circumstances
Do not leave the building until the shaking stops
Outdoors:
Move away from buildings, walls, power lines, or glass that could fall
Avoid running or acting hastily
In a vehicle:
Stop in a safe place without blocking the way
Remain inside the car until the tremor passes
After an Earthquake: Caution
Check your condition and that of people around you
Put on shoes before leaving to avoid cutting yourself on glass
Turn off gas, electricity, and water valves as a preventive measure
Evacuate using the stairs, never use the elevator
Do not enter damaged buildings, there could be aftershocks
Call 112 only in case of real emergency
Follow only official information and avoid spreading rumors
The IGN continues monitoring seismic activity in the area and recommends that citizens remain calm and follow basic safety recommendations in case of possible aftershocks.