Earthquake in Chilca: The constant seismic threat in Peru

The 4.8 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale that shook Chilca this Tuesday has generated concern among the Peruvian population, reminding of the constant seismic threat faced by the country due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for concentrating 85% of the world's seismic activity. The epicenter of this earthquake was located in Chilca, a town south of Lima, the Peruvian capital, and had a depth of 50 km, according to information provided by the National Seismological Center of the IGP. The uncertainty surrounding larger magnitude earthquakes continues to be a constant concern for authorities and the general population. Despite advances in technology, predicting exactly when a high-intensity earthquake will occur has not yet been achieved, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to face emergency situations. In this context, the Peruvian Association of Insurance Companies (Apeseg) has issued a series of recommendations aimed at mitigating possible damages and protecting the population in the event of a new seismic event. Among Apeseg's recommendations, the importance of having a home insurance policy that includes coverage for earthquakes is highlighted, as these natural events can cause significant damage to buildings. It is also advised to have a family emergency plan that establishes actions to take in the event of an earthquake, such as identifying safe areas within the home and having an emergency backpack with basic provisions. Prevention and preparedness are key to reducing risks associated with natural disasters, urging the population to stay informed and take preventive measures. The magnitude of the earthquake in Chilca has served as a reminder of the seismic vulnerability of the region and the need to strengthen prevention and response measures to events of this nature. In this sense, local and national authorities must focus their efforts on implementing sustainable construction policies that ensure the resistance of buildings to earthquakes, as well as promoting drills and awareness campaigns on the importance of disaster preparedness. Solidarity and collaboration among citizens also play a fundamental role in emergency response, urging the population to actively participate in the planning and execution of prevention actions. Coordination among the different actors involved in risk management and disaster response is essential to ensure adequate care for the affected population and reduce the impact of natural events. The accumulated experience over the years in risk management and disaster response has strengthened the capacity of authorities and society to face crises such as the one in Chilca. However, it is necessary to continue working on improving prevention and response mechanisms, as well as raising awareness among the population about the importance of disaster preparedness. The resilience of a society is built on cooperation, solidarity, and the commitment of all its members. In conclusion, the earthquake recorded in Chilca has once again highlighted the fragility of our environment in the face of natural phenomena and the need to be prepared to confront them. Prevention, planning, and coordination among different sectors are key elements in reducing risks and protecting the lives and assets of the population in emergency situations. The safety and well-being of Peruvian society depend to a large extent on our ability to anticipate and respond effectively to the challenges posed by nature.