Which area of Spain has the highest seismic risk?
Granada and Almería (eastern Andalusia) have the highest historical seismicity in Spain. The Lorca earthquake in 2011 (M5.1) caused 9 deaths. The Canary Islands also have significant volcanic-seismic activity.
How often do earthquakes occur in Spain?
The National Geographic Institute (IGN) records hundreds of earthquakes per month in Spain, the vast majority of low magnitude. Earthquakes felt by the population occur several times a year.
What caused the Lorca earthquake in 2011?
The Lorca earthquake of May 2011 (M5.1) was caused by the Alhama de Murcia fault, part of the Betic fault system in SE Spain. Its very shallow depth (1 km) amplified the damage.