Spanish scientists monitoring a volcanic eruption off the coast of El Hierro believe that it could be losing strength.

The eruption began near the Spanish island last Thursday following several weeks of increased seismic activity. Residents of La Restinga village were evacuated from their homes after the smell of sulphur was detected.

Carmen Lopez from the Spanish National Geographic Institute and Joan Marti from the Board of Scientific Investigation believe that the eruption may not be as powerful as first predicted. Initially, it was feared the underwater volcano could create a small island as a result of the magma being pushed to the surface.

Lopez explained that indicators such as the strength and depth of the tremors have been falling, adding that there has been an overall decrease in seismic activity.

The scientists will continue to monitor the situation.