Magnitude 2.5 earthquake shakes Inzá, Cauca: population on alert. Key measures for earthquakes in Colombia.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 2.5 shook the town of Inzá, Cauca, today, July 20. The Colombian Geological Service reported that the tremor had a shallow depth and no major damages have been reported so far. This event has put the population on alert, and a call is made to report if they felt the earthquake using the hashtag #SismosColombiaSGC. Colombia is a seismically active country due to the interaction between different tectonic plates, such as the Nazca, South America, and Caribbean plates, generating a complex geological dynamic that favors the occurrence of earthquakes in most of the territory. On average, around 2,500 earthquakes are recorded per month in the country, with the majority not being perceptible to people. The most seismically active areas are the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as regions near the mountain ranges. It is vital for the population to be prepared and aware of the risks associated with earthquakes, as well as the safety measures to take in case of such an event. Despite Colombia having high seismic activity, it is important to highlight that there is not an increase in the frequency of earthquakes, but rather the perception of these events has increased thanks to technological advances and the dissemination of information by entities such as the Colombian Geological Service. Reporting an earthquake by those who felt it is of special importance, as this allows authorities to quickly estimate the effects of the event and act effectively in case of damages. The Colombian Geological Service facilitates the collection of information through online forms to determine the intensity of the seismic movement and improve knowledge of seismic threat in the country. Earthquakes are tremors generated by the release of accumulated energy that propagate in the form of waves, potentially causing structural and natural damage in their surroundings. These phenomena can originate from tectonic plate movements, volcanic activity, or human actions, such as the extraction of energy resources. The magnitude and depth of an earthquake are calculated through monitoring equipment that records ground movements and generated waves. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management provides important recommendations to the population in case of an earthquake. It is essential to take precautionary measures before an earthquake, such as identifying safe zones at home and having a family emergency plan. During an earthquake, it is advised to remain calm, seek protection under solid structures, and move away from windows and objects that may fall. In conclusion, the incidence of earthquakes in Colombia is a latent reality due to its geographical location. Prevention, preparation, and adequate response to these events are key to mitigating their effects and protecting the population. Staying informed and following the instructions of competent authorities are fundamental actions to face these natural phenomena with resilience.