The Seismic Monitoring and Research Group SMRG at UM within the Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta, recorded seismic signals associated with a rockfall along the Crystal Lagoon coastline of Comino on Sunday.
The researchers said that analysis of recordings from the Malta Seismic Network identified a seismic signal at 09:13:48 Malta local time (08:13:48 UTC). The signal was detected by seismic monitoring stations in the northern part of the Maltese Islands, located on Comino, Qala, Xlendi and Mellieha.
The distribution of these recordings, together with preliminary distance and directional estimates, indicated an origin west of Comino, consistent with the reported location of the rockfall.
The researchers explained that the event was also recorded by additional seismic stations recently deployed through the Seismology in Schools programme. ”These installations use compact, easy-to-deploy seismic instruments that extend monitoring capabilities beyond the permanent stations of the Malta Seismic Network. The additional recordings provided valuable coverage and allowed the research group to better constrain the location of the event.”
They stressed that the incident highlights the importance of seismic monitoring in identifying and studying geological hazards beyond earthquakes. ”Seismic recordings can provide valuable information about rockfalls, slope failures and other ground movements, complementing conventional geological and visual monitoring.”
Prof. Sebastiano D’Amico, Head of the Department of Geosciences, said, “we are particularly relieved and fortunate that nobody was injured in this incident. The rockfall occurred on a Sunday, on a pleasant day when many people are likely to visit Comino and enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings. Given the popularity of the Crystal Lagoon and its coastline among visitors, swimmers and boat operators, the absence of casualties is especially welcome.”
The Seismic Monitoring Research Group concluded by saying that it will continue to develop and expand its monitoring capabilities, combining the Malta Seismic Network with educational and community-based seismic installations to improve the detection and understanding of geological events across the Maltese Islands.
Photos: Seismic Monitoring and Research Group SMRG at UM