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The formation of the Canary Islands is closely related to volcanic activity, and this is evident in the geography and landscapes of each of them. Knowing this, we wonder: will Lanzarote volcanoes erupt again? This is something to be aware of if you are planning a trip to the island.
The geological formation of Lanzarote: historical eruptions
Lanzarote is the second oldest of the Canary Islands and was formed more than 15,000 years ago. Throughout its geography, the role played by volcanic activity in its formation and how it still influences the entire island today is evident.
The oldest island is Fuerteventura, with 20,000 years; and El Hierro, is the youngest, with just one million years.
The Spanish archipelago is located on the African Plate, from where the great eruptions that have shaped the islands have emerged. Volcanic activity in Lanzarote was intense during its formation, but then decreased, and although there are still active volcanoes, an eruption is not expected soon.
In the history of Lanzarote, two major eruptions are remembered: the one in 1730 in Timanfaya that lasted almost six years and the one in 1820 in Tinguatón, which was much less intense. These eruptions helped shape the island as we know it today.
Understanding volcanic activity in Lanzarote
The unique landscape of Lanzarote was sculpted by volcanic activity over thousands of years. This is how the most important geological attractions of the island emerged, such as the Cueva de los Verdes. By understanding how this activity occurs, it is easier to comprehend its impact on the island.
The role of calderas and volcanic fissures
One of the concepts we must understand is volcanic fissures. These are cracks formed in the earth’s crust and allow the ascent of magma. The last major eruption in Lanzarote began with the formation of a 14-kilometer-long fissure.
On the other hand, calderas are depressions that form by the collapse of a volcano after a major eruption. Two examples of them are the calderas of Famara and Timanfaya.
Recent seismic activity: what does it tell us?
Earthquakes are one of the signs of volcanic activity in a region, as they can indicate that there is more movement of magma. In Lanzarote, there are regular tremors, however, most are imperceptible to the population.
Due to the nature of the island, the Volcanological Institute of the Canary Islands (INVOLCAN) monitors earthquakes to detect any change that may indicate an increased volcanic risk.
When was the last eruption in Lanzarote?
The last eruption that occurred in Lanzarote was in 1824 and since then volcanic activity has remained calm. Involcan does not foresee an eruption happening soon. However, this does not mean that it cannot occur in the future.
Predicting the eruption of a volcano is complicated, which is why constant vigilance is maintained for any sign that may generate an alert.
The eruptions of 1730-1736 and 1824: a closer look
In the history of Lanzarote, we remember two eruptions that have impacted the island. The one in 1824 occurred in Tinguatón, north of Lanzarote. This is remembered as the last one to occur. The eruption began on July 31 and lasted for three months.
From this last eruption, the volcanoes of Tao, Tinguatón, and Nuevo Volcan were created. However, its impact was less than that of 1730, which lasted until 1736. During this eruption, the area where Timanfaya National Park is located was born, but this meant the loss of numerous towns.
In total, 33 volcanoes were formed throughout the island from the Timanfaya eruption. This phenomenon had a great impact both on the geology and on the lives of the people of Lanzarote. The crops and grazing areas were devastated, the area now looked like a lunar landscape, and the flora was scarce.
The people of Lanzarote had to reinvent themselves to restart their lives and found a way to take advantage of the volcanic landscape, now covered by ashes. The most notable example is the vineyards of La Geria.
Lanzarote’s volcanic monitoring program
Involcan maintains a constant monitoring program in the Canary Islands to detect possible eruptions. The institute follows risk signals to take action as soon as possible and thus keep the population safe.
The signals that can announce an eruption are seismic activity, gas leaks, and changes in the earth’s crust. Involcan has instruments to track these changes. However, it must be considered that it is very difficult to detect how and where an eruption will occur.
Will Lanzarote volcanoes erupt again?
Analysis of seismic data and volcanic trends
According to scientific research, it is unlikely that an eruption will occur soon. Although the risk is low, it does not mean that an event cannot occur in the future. At this time, it is safe to visit the island and enjoy its landscapes.
Is Lanzarote still volcanically active?
Although there have been no eruptions in recent years, there is still an active volcano in Lanzarote, Timanfaya. Volcanic activity is evident when you visit this area. The temperature can reach 120 °C in some areas and more than 600 °C at 14 meters deep.
In Timanfaya National Park, you will see phenomena such as geysers and the volcanic oven that clearly show the volcanic activity on the island.
Preparing for a potential eruption
Evacuation plans and safety measures
In the Canary Islands, there is the Volcanic Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands (PEVOLCA) that establishes how institutions should act to protect the population in case of eruptions. The plan details the tasks of each institution, evacuation conditions, routes, meeting points, means of transport, shelters, among other aspects.
How can residents and visitors stay informed?
If an emergency occurs, it is important to stay tuned to official announcements to know what to do. Security agencies will issue announcements to alert and inform the population. These will be made through loudspeakers and media.
When signs of a possible eruption are present, Pevolca will be activated. The population will be notified of the risk level according to the global volcano warning system that establishes four colours according to the level of alert:
- Green: pre-alert.
- Yellow: alert. At this point, the emergency plan is activated.
- Orange: maximum alert. Pre-eruptive phenomena occur, and evacuations begin.
- Red: emergency situation. All means and resources of the emergency plan are applied.
Conclusion
You cannot talk about the history of Lanzarote without referring to the volcanoes. They are part of everyday life on the island. However, at this time it is a safe place to visit. Plan your visit and do not forget to book your Lanzarote transfers to Costa Teguise.
Predicting eruptions is an inexact science, but judging by constant monitoring, the volcanoes of Lanzarote will not erupt again in the near future. Although it must be taken into account that there are still active volcanoes.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)