Seismic activity in São Miguel in an area where crises occur periodically

Since October 20, 75 earthquakes have been recorded in the Hirondelle Trench area near São Miguel, Azores, with four felt by residents. The seismic activity is part of a known seismogenic zone, which has experienced similar crises in the past. Recent significant quakes include a magnitude 4.5 tremor felt in Ginetes and a 3.8 magnitude quake shortly after. The most impactful event occurred on October 20, 2026, with a magnitude of 5.1, affecting various locations in São Miguel, Terceira, and Santa Maria. The IPMA warns that further seismic events may occur in the coming days.