Magnitude 4.9 Earthquake Jolts Málaga, Felt Across Southern Spain

Strong Tremor Shakes Costa del Sol

A magnitude 4.9 earthquake rattled the province of Málaga, Spain, on Friday, December 5, 2025, at approximately 10:38 AM local time. The seismic event, with its epicenter located about 3.1 kilometers southeast of Fuengirola, was described by residents as a 'very strong tremor'. Despite its noticeable intensity, authorities have confirmed no immediate reports of personal injuries or significant material damage.

Widespread Impact and Official Response

The earthquake's deep hypocenter, estimated between 78 and 79 kilometers, is believed to have mitigated its destructive potential on the surface. Luis Cabañas, a technician from the Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN), explained that 'if it had been on the surface, it probably would have caused damage to some building, but with such a deep epicenter, no damage has occurred'.

The tremor was widely felt throughout the region, extending beyond Málaga to parts of Seville, Cordoba, and even Extremadura. Emergency services received over 100 calls to the 112 line, with approximately 50 originating from various municipalities in Málaga, including Benalmádena, Torremolinos, Marbella, and Alhaurín de la Torre, and others from Seville and Cordoba.

In response to the event, the Junta de Andalucía activated the pre-emergency phase, designated as operational situation 0, of its Seismic Risk Plan. This protocol ensures the coordination of official information, strengthens warning channels, and prepares necessary resources for potential further seismic activity.

Resident Accounts and Geological Context

Residents shared their experiences across social media and to local news outlets. Many reported being woken up by the shaking, with some noting 'shaking furniture and clattering dishes'. One resident in Málaga described feeling 'a bump and then a lateral shake but very short'.

Southern Spain, particularly the Málaga region, is situated in a seismically active zone due to the ongoing slow collision between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geological interaction, primarily along the Alboran Fault Zone, leads to periodic seismic events. On average, Málaga experiences about 2.1 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher annually.