The importance of citizen participation in the collection of seismic data.

The recent seismic activity that shook Lisbon, with a magnitude of 5.5, has highlighted the importance of citizen participation in the collection of earthquake data. This event, although recorded, has revealed the need for greater collaboration between the population and the institutions responsible for measuring and analyzing tremors, such as the National Seismic Network of the National Geographic Institute (IGN). Seismologist Carlos González emphasizes that, thanks to the information provided by citizens, a better understanding of the intensity and impact of these natural phenomena can be established. Despite the tremor being felt in wide areas of the Iberian Peninsula, only a few localities, such as O Irixo, appear in the IGN database. This discrepancy is largely due to the low participation in the questionnaires that the National Seismic Network makes available to citizens. González stresses that "based on the affected population and the perceived damage, we can establish an intensity," thus emphasizing the fundamental role that the community plays in data collection. Earthquakes generate waves that propagate through the earth, decreasing in intensity as they move away from the epicenter. However, this propagation and its perception depend largely on the geography and infrastructure of each region. For example, the seismologist notes that "it is easier for the waves to reach the area of Pontevedra than that of Ourense, since they pass through more land." This geographical variability underscores the importance of having a comprehensive database that incorporates the experiences of affected individuals. To address this situation, the National Seismic Network facilitates access to "macroseismic questionnaires" through its website. These questionnaires allow citizens to report not only their location and the sensations experienced during the tremor but also to observe the movement of their surroundings and any damage that may have occurred. González highlights that "the user can add photos of how their environment has been affected to the questionnaire," which helps experts assess the real impact of the earthquake. The information collected through these questionnaires is crucial. According to González, "tremors produce specific cracks that allow us to see if the damage was caused by the earthquake." This meticulous observation, combined with the international scale of intensities, enables scientists to classify and better understand the effects of each quake. In the specific case of the earthquake that occurred in Lisbon, the response was notably high in communities such as Extremadura, where many citizens took the time to complete the questionnaires. González comments that "from the Galicia area, there was especially a lot from Pontevedra," suggesting that participation can vary significantly between different regions. The lack of data from areas such as Xinzo de Limia highlights the need to promote greater awareness of the importance of citizen participation in these processes. Data collection is not solely the task of experts; it requires a joint effort with the population to ensure a comprehensive and accurate view of seismic events. The seismologist also calls for action, urging communities to participate in the evaluation of earthquakes by using these questionnaires. Every response counts, and every shared experience can be vital for improving measurements and responses to future quakes. In conclusion, the interaction between the population and experts is essential for a better understanding and management of earthquakes. As seismic phenomena continue to occur, it is crucial that everyone, from citizens to scientists, works together to build a more efficient and effective monitoring system. The active participation of the community will not only enhance the quality of the data but also strengthen society's resilience to the challenges posed by natural disasters.