The call for prevention after the earthquake in Sucre and Bolivia: lessons on natural risk management

An earthquake of magnitude 7.3 originating from Chile shook the city of Sucre and various regions of Bolivia on Thursday night, causing alarm and concern among the population. The seismic movement, which occurred at 9:50:46 pm, left damages to some streetlights and caused dizziness in several people, as reported by Jorge Tanus, head of the Municipal Integral Directorate of Risk Management (Dimger). The San Calixto Observatory confirmed the magnitude of the earthquake and located its epicenter in Chile, at a hypocentral depth of 126.3 km. Despite the distance, the tremor was felt in different areas of Bolivia, including Cochabamba, Sucre, Santa Cruz, and Tarija. This natural phenomenon, classified as an "intermediate earthquake," put residents of these areas on alert, as they felt the impact of the force of nature. Reports on social media quickly surfaced, with numerous citizens sharing their experiences and sensations during the earthquake. In addition to the affected capital cities like Sucre, testimonies were also recorded from smaller towns, such as Padilla in Chuquisaca, showing the magnitude and reach of the seismic event in the region. In the face of the uncertainty and fear triggered by the earthquake, local authorities and risk management organizations urged the population to remain calm and follow safety recommendations. While no serious damages or casualties were reported as a result of this event, the importance of being prepared and having contingency plans for possible natural disasters was once again emphasized by the competent authorities. Bolivia's seismic vulnerability, located in a high seismic risk zone in the Pacific Ring of Fire, is a constant reminder of the need to be alert and prepared to face events like the one that occurred on Thursday night. Collaboration between governmental institutions, emergency organizations, and the general public is essential to ensure an effective and coordinated response in crisis situations. The updating and strengthening of construction and building regulations, as well as raising awareness among the population about the importance of prevention and preparedness for natural disasters, are key aspects that must be addressed comprehensively to minimize the impacts of events like the earthquake recorded on this occasion. Fortunately, this time the earthquake did not have serious consequences, but it serves as a reminder of the fragility of our environment in the face of nature and the need to always be alert and prepared to face possible eventualities. Solidarity and shared responsibility are essential to build a more resilient society capable of facing the challenges posed by the natural environment in which we live. In conclusion, the magnitude 7.3 earthquake originating from Chile that shook Sucre and other regions of Bolivia highlights the importance of prevention, planning, and collaboration as key elements in natural risk management. This episode serves as a wake-up call to strengthen preparation and response measures for possible future disasters, reminding us of the need to always be alert and united in the face of nature's onslaughts.