Andalusia’s regional minister for the Presidency, Health and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz, activated the Andalusia Seismic Risk Emergency Plan in emergency phase, operational situation 1, on Saturday, August 15, after a magnitude 5 earthquake struck at 1:04 a.m. Its epicentre was in Alhendín, Granada. There was no confirmed information about personal injuries at the time of the announcement.
The 1-1-2 emergency line handled more than 200 calls, most from Granada province, as well as from other provinces except Huelva and Cádiz. Callers reported shaking in numerous municipalities across Andalusia. Some said cracks had appeared and that cornices, masonry, walls or other building elements had fallen, or that buildings had been damaged.
Firefighters and police were inspecting and cordoning off locations where damage had been reported to keep people away. Sanz said the Andalusia Volunteer Architects Group (GAVE) had been activated to assess and quantify possible building damage. The regional authorities were also in contact with the Andalusian Institute of Geophysics and the Spanish National Research Council to monitor seismic activity.
The Andalusia Emergency Agency reminded residents that earthquakes cannot be predicted and advised them to follow self-protection guidance. During shaking, remain where you are if possible, keep away from building façades and do not use lifts. Indoors, take cover beside a strong structure, such as under a sturdy table or bed, or next to a pillar or load-bearing wall. Outdoors, move away from façades, balconies, walls, power lines and other objects that could fall. Do not stop to photograph damaged areas, and keep access routes clear for emergency crews.
After the shaking stops, leave buildings calmly by the stairs if evacuation is needed; do not use a lift. Check for injuries, but do not move anyone with serious injuries unless you know how or there is immediate danger. Check gas, water and electricity lines visually and by smell, without switching anything on. Use the phone only for emergencies and follow instructions from authorities through official channels and media.