The earth shook this Monday, January 6, 2025 at 7:08 a.m. and 11:08 a.m. in Comminges. Another earthquake was also recorded on Sunday January 5 at 4:22 p.m.
This start of the year promises to be eventful for the inhabitants of Comminges, in Haute-Garonne, not because of the festivities or the weather conditions, but because of a series of small earthquakes which marked the days of January 5 and 6, 2025.
Two tremors this Monday, January 6
On Monday January 6, two earthquakes were recorded in Comminges by the French Central Seismological Bureau (BCSF-Rénass). The first was felt at 7h08with a magnitude of 1,9. Its epicenter was located near Bagnères-de-Luchonas well as the municipalities of Juzet-de-Luchon et Luchon Sky.
A few hours later, at 11h08a second tremor was recorded, this time with a magnitude of 1,8. The epicenter was located near the Pic d'Anetonear the villages of Bagnères-de-Luchon, Garin, Ensand even beyond, towards Vielhain Spain.
A first earthquake the day before
These Monday tremors were preceded by a first seismic event, recorded on Sunday January 5 at 16h22. With a magnitude of 1,5this earthquake also had its epicenter near the Pic d'Anetonear Bagnères-de-Luchon.
Moderate but supervised activity
Although of low magnitude, these small earthquakes are a reminder that the Pyrenees region remains an active seismic zone. These movements are rarely perceptible to residents, but they are subject to careful monitoring by the competent authorities.
However, the inhabitants of Comminges can be reassured: with such magnitudes, these tremors do not present any immediate danger. They are simply witnesses of the natural forces at work in the bowels of the Earth.
A region with known tectonic activity
The risks of an earthquake vary, in fact, depending on its magnitude, but also on local factors such as the depth of the epicenter, population density, the quality of construction, and the nature of the soil. Here is an overview of the potential impacts according to magnitude:
Magnitude < 2.0: Micro-earthquakes
Description: Very common, often imperceptible to humans.
Risks: No risk to people or infrastructure.
Magnitude 2.0 to 3.9: Minor earthquakes
Description: Typically felt by residents near the epicenter.
Risks: Little damage; slight vibrations may be felt.
Magnitude 4.0 to 4.9: Light earthquakes
Description: Felt over a wider area, objects may move slightly.
Risks: Minor damage in poorly constructed buildings; no major danger.
Magnitude 5.0 to 5.9: Moderate earthquakes
Description: Shaking clearly felt, sometimes accompanied by noise.
Risks:
– Moderate damage to fragile structures.
– Increased risk for old constructions or those poorly adapted to seismic standards.
Magnitude 6.0 to 6.9: Strong earthquakes
Description: Detected hundreds of kilometers away. Significant shaking.
Risks:
– Significant damage to poorly designed buildings.
– Risks for people close to the epicenter.
– Possible landslides and road breaks.
Magnitude 7.0 to 7.9: Major earthquakes
Description: Intense tremors with possible aftershocks.
Risks:
– Extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.
– Risks of collapses, fires, and dike ruptures.
– Possible triggering of tsunamis in coastal areas.
Magnitude 8.0 and above: Devastating earthquakes
Description: Very rare but extremely powerful, felt over thousands of kilometers.
Risks:
– Massive destruction in affected areas.
– High risk of human losses and major economic damage.
– Frequent tsunamis in maritime areas.
Aggravating factors
Depth: Shallow earthquakes (depth < 70 km) generally cause more damage.
Nature of the ground: Soft soils amplify vibrations, increasing the risks for structures.
Population density: Dense urban areas are more vulnerable to human and economic losses.
Construction standards: Buildings that do not comply with seismic standards are the most affected.
Even small earthquakes can pose a danger if they occur in densely populated areas with fragile infrastructure. This is why prevention, construction standards and awareness remain essential.
