An earthquake was registered south of Filfla early this morning at 3.01 am. The earthquake had a magnitude of 4.3 and was felt all over the island, however, it was reported to be more pronounced in the south of Malta.  

 

 

The University of Malta's Seismic Monitoring and Research Group recorded three minor earthquakes on the 25th, 27th and 29th of September. 

Earthquakes in Malta are not uncommon, this is due to the fact that the island is located close to the tectonic plate boundary between Africa and Europe. 

These tremors are usually caused when tectonic plates on the earth's crust move. These underground stresses cause friction, known as seismic waves, or earthquakes. Tremors can also be caused by geological events, such as subterranean hollow cave-ins.

The last major earthquake to cause severe damage to the island was recorded in 1923. It was reported that the tremors were mostly felt around the Grand Harbour area, however, it also caused damage to the churches of St. Paul and the Tal-Virtù in Rabat.