Crystal Lagoon Rockfall Triggered Seismic Signals Across Malta, SMRG Reports

A rockfall along the Crystal Lagoon coastline in Comino on Sunday, 8 November was detected by Malta's seismic monitoring network, according to the Seismic Monitoring and Research Group (SMRG) within the University of Malta's Department of Geosciences.

Researchers identified a seismic signal at 9:13am local time, which was recorded by monitoring stations located on Comino, Qala, Xlendi and Mellieħa. By analysing the recordings, scientists concluded that the signal originated west of Comino, matching the reported location of the rockfall.

The event was also captured by additional seismic stations recently installed through the Seismology in Schools programme. These compact instruments complement the permanent Malta Seismic Network, providing wider coverage and helping researchers pinpoint the location of geological events more accurately.

According to the SMRG, the incident demonstrates how seismic monitoring can be used to detect and study geological hazards beyond earthquakes, including rockfalls, slope failures and other ground movements.

Professor Sebastiano D'Amico, Head of the Department of Geosciences, said the team was relieved that nobody was injured.

"We are particularly relieved and fortunate that nobody was injured in this incident," he said, noting that the rockfall occurred on a Sunday when many people were likely to be visiting Comino and the Crystal Lagoon.

"Given the popularity of the Crystal Lagoon and its coastline among visitors, swimmers and boat operators, the absence of casualties is especially welcome," he added.

The research group said it will continue expanding its monitoring capabilities by combining the Malta Seismic Network with educational and community-based seismic stations to improve the detection and understanding of geological events across the Maltese Islands.

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Photo Source: SMRG, TVM