The series The Palmreleased on December 12 in Netflixcombines elements of drama and disaster to tell the story of a family trapped in an extreme situation. The plot revolves around a volcanic eruption that threatens to trigger a megatsunami capable of endangering several continents.
Although the series is not directly based on real events, it finds inspiration in an authentic geographical setting and in scientific theories that were debated for years.
La Palma, one of the Canary Islandsis known as the “Beautiful Island” thanks to its combination of volcanic landscapes, crystal clear waters and a lush pine forest.
This natural paradise also has high mountain peaks ideal for astronomical observation, making it a unique destination for tourists and scientists alike.
However, the beauty of the island contrasts with its latent risk: it is home to the Cumbre Vieja, one of the most active volcanic structures in the region. Cumbre Vieja recorded eruptions throughout the last century, including events in 1949, 1971 and, more recently, in 2021.
These activities reinforced La Palma’s reputation as a place of intense volcanic activity which, despite its danger, also makes it fascinating for geological studies.
He September 19, 2021the Cumbre Vieja began one of the most notable eruptions in the island’s modern history. The event, preceded by an increase in seismic activity since 2017, marked the beginning of an 85-day period of expulsion of lava, gases y ashes. It was the longest eruption ever recorded on La Palma.
The impact on daily life and the environment was significant: more than 7 thousand residents They had to be evacuated as the lava destroyed around 3 thousand properties and affected hundreds of hectares of banana plantations, one of the main economic activities on the island.
In addition, the toxic gases emitted when the lava came into contact with the ocean forced many inhabitants to remain confined to their homes for safety reasons.
On December 25, 2021, the Spanish government officially declared the end of the eruption, with President Pedro Sanchez describing the ad as “the best Christmas gift” for those affected. However, the scars of this event persist in the island’s infrastructure and ecosystem.
A central element of the Netflix series is the megatsunami theory, first proposed in a 2001 article. This study suggested that a massive collapse of the Cumbre Vieja could generate waves up to 24 meters high, capable of impacting the coasts of North America, South America and other regions throughout the Atlantic.
Although the hypothesis captured the imagination of the public and the series’ creators, it was subject to critical revisions. He United States Geological Survey (USGS) maintains that a collapse of this magnitude is unlikely, since volcanic collapses usually occur gradually and not in a single catastrophic event.
According to current simulations, the eggs generated by a landslide would be much smaller, probably between 1 and 2 meters when reaching distant coasts such as those of the United States.
The authenticity of The Palm It is reflected in its meticulous production. The series was largely filmed on the island of La Palma itself, taking advantage of its unique geography to recreate an immersive environment.
Places like the black sand beach and the tourist complex Beautiful Island were used as main sets, while other scenes were filmed in Tenerifeand various beaches of the Canary Islands.
Even the local airport, which was closed during the 2021 eruption due to ash accumulation, served as a location in some key shots.
