Terceira Island remains under heightened scientific monitoring as the seismo-volcanic crisis that began in June 2022 continues, centered around the Santa Bárbara volcanic complex on the island’s western flank. 

The Azores Seismo-Volcanic Information and Monitoring Center (CIVISA) currently maintains Alert Level V3 (reactivated volcanic system) for Santa Bárbara, reflecting persistent microseismic activity consistent with magma movement at depth. 

Over the past days, several low-magnitude earthquakes, mostly between M1.8 and M3.0, have been felt in Angra do Heroísmo and Praia da Vitória, though without serious damage. 

CIVISA reports that seismicity, ground deformation, and geochemical data are being closely tracked. While no signs of an imminent eruption have been identified, authorities emphasize that the reactivation of Santa Bárbara requires sustained vigilance.

Monitoring teams from the University of the Azores maintain a 24-hour surveillance of the island’s seismic current activity, while the Azores Civil Protection advises residents and local municipalities to keep informed of further developments. Local authorities state that communications, air service, and essential infrastructures remain fully operational. 

Residents of Angra, Praia, São Mateus, and Serreta, in particular, are encouraged to review basic safety guidance during felt earthquakes, ensuring households have standard preparedness items such as water, medications, flashlights, and emergency contacts.

Terceira Island is one of the most historically and culturally significant islands of the Azores, home to two major cities: Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Praia da Vitória, which is an important Atlantic port. 

Terceira is also home to the Lajes Air Base, a U.S. military field critical as a strategic hub for the United States, NATO, and Portugal due to its central location in the North Atlantic. It supports transatlantic aircraft operations, enabling rapid military deployment across Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Known for its lush volcanic landscapes, coastal cliffs, and traditional festivities, Terceira plays a central role in Azorean history, transatlantic links, and the Portuguese diaspora, with deep connections to communities in New England, California, and Canada.

Follow the seismic activity in real time @  CIVISA

PAJ/Staff