A powerful magnitude 5 earthquake has shaken Granada in southern Spain, sending residents fleeing their homes and leaving buildings, streets and vehicles damaged.
The earthquake struck shortly after 1 a.m. on Saturday, with its epicenter near Alhendín, around 10 kilometers south of Granada. The tremor was felt across much of Andalusia and in areas farther away.
The sudden shaking caused cracks in walls and facades, while sections of balconies, cornices and masonry fell onto streets. Several vehicles were also damaged by falling debris.
Emergency services received more than 200 alerts as frightened residents reported damage and sought assistance.
Police and firefighters cordoned off affected areas while teams inspected buildings for possible structural problems and secured dangerous sections.
The earthquake was followed by dozens of smaller tremors, adding to the anxiety among residents who remained on alert through the night.
Authorities have urged people to stay calm and avoid damaged facades, balconies, walls and other areas where debris could fall.
Fortunately, no deaths or injuries have been reported so far, and authorities say there is no evidence of widespread serious structural damage.
As inspections continue across Granada, emergency crews remain on standby while officials monitor the possibility of further aftershocks.
