5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Southern Spain: What Happened and What’s Next
On July 14, 2025, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck southern Spain, jolting residents and tourists awake across more than 50 towns and several major tourist hotspots. The tremor, which occurred at approximately 7:13 AM local time, was registered by Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN) and had its epicenter just off the coast of Almería at a shallow depth of 2 kilometers.
Where Was the Earthquake Felt?
The earthquake’s impact was widespread, with tremors felt in cities and towns across Andalucía, Murcia, Alicante, Granada, Jaén, Albacete, and as far as the Costa del Sol. In addition, the quake was strong enough to be noticed across the Mediterranean, with reports of it being felt in northern Morocco.
How Strong Was the Shaking?
Because the quake struck at a shallow depth, the shaking was especially intense. Residents described being “raised from their beds” by the “strong” and “surprisingly long” tremors. The event reached a level IV–V on the European Macroseismic Scale, meaning people were clearly woken, and objects swayed or fell inside homes.
“I was sleeping, and the whole house shook for a few seconds. There was an incredible roar. It woke up my entire family and our neighbours in the complex.” — Tourist in Agua Amarga
Damage and Injuries
Despite the intensity, no major injuries or significant structural damage have been reported34. However, there were some notable incidents:
- Almería Airport: A section of the ceiling in a café at the departure lounge collapsed. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident caused alarm among early morning staff and travelers.
- Malaga Airport: Part of a coffee shop ceiling also fell, but again, no injuries were reported.
- Homes and Businesses: Residents reported rattled windows, falling crockery, and swaying fixtures. Emergency services received at least 25 calls, mainly from Almería, Granada, and Jaén
Travel Disruption
The earthquake led to travel chaos across southern Spain, with delays and cancellations reported at major airports, including those served by airlines like Lufthansa, Ryanair, Air France, Delta, and Emirates. Tourists and locals alike were caught off guard, but hotels and resorts reported no lasting damage and continued operations as normal.
Why Did the Quake Feel So Strong?
The earthquake’s shallow depth (about 2 km below the seabed) amplified its effects, making the shaking more pronounced over a wide area. Shallow quakes tend to cause more noticeable surface movement, which explains why even distant towns felt the tremors.
Is Southern Spain Prone to Earthquakes?
While southern Spain is not typically known for powerful earthquakes, seismic activity is not unusual in the Andalusian region3. The area has experienced historic events, such as the 1884 Andalusian earthquake, and more recent minor quakes, including a 4.3-magnitude tremor in Axarquía in March 2024.
What Should Residents and Tourists Do?
- Stay informed: Follow updates from official channels and local authorities.
- Be prepared for aftershocks: Although no significant aftershocks have been reported, mild tremors may continue.
- Follow safety guidelines: Emergency services remain on alert and advise caution.
In summary, the 5.5 magnitude earthquake in southern Spain caused alarm and some property damage, but no serious injuries. Emergency services responded quickly, and the region’s tourism sector remains operational and safe for visitors