Strong earthquake shakes Granada, Spain, prompting Alhambra evacuations

A magnitude 4.7 earthquake shook Granada, Spain, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, causing precautionary evacuations at the iconic Alhambra complex. The main tremor, with its epicenter in the town of Gójar, occurred at 10:37 AM, followed by four aftershocks, including one reaching magnitude 4.0.

In response to the seismic activity, officials decided to temporarily suspend visits and evacuate visitors from the Palacios Nazaríes and the Alcazaba, two of the most visited sections of the Alhambra. The monument's management is continuously assessing the situation.

The Spanish National Geographic Institute (IGN) also recorded other seismic events in nearby towns, with magnitudes ranging from 2.6 to 2.9. The Google earthquake alert system was activated on numerous phones due to the intensity of the shaking.

Juanma Moreno, the president of the Regional Government of Andalusia, advised "maximum prudence" and warned that experts believe seismic movements and aftershocks could continue in the area. He urged residents to follow safety guidelines and remain calm.

In response to the tremors, the Metro de Granada announced it would reduce its operating speed to a maximum of 30 kilometers per hour. Local police also appealed for calm and recommended citizens follow self-protection measures, advising them to stay away from buildings due to the risk of falling debris. These measures remain in place as authorities monitor the seismic activity.

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Experts point out that it is possible that seismic movements and aftershocks will continue in the area, and it is important to know how we should act in these situations. Let's follow the advice and maintain serenity, please.