Chile: the constant seismic activity and its impact on daily life

Chile, a country characterized by its geography and its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, faces constant seismic activity that is part of its daily reality. The South American nation, alongside Japan, is among the most seismically active countries in the world, creating a scenario where earthquakes are part of the environment. However, despite the large number of tectonic movements recorded daily, the vast majority of them are not felt by the population. This phenomenon highlights the need to understand how and when a tremor can be felt by people and what implications this has. The National Seismological Commission (CSN) plays a crucial role in educating the public about earthquakes. It provides detailed information about seismic activity and the characteristics of tremors, helping the community better understand this natural phenomenon. In this context, it is important to distinguish between earthquakes that cause structural damage and those that, although measured precisely, go unnoticed by the public. In Chile, an earthquake is classified as one that exceeds a magnitude of VII on the Mercalli Scale, which measures the intensity of the movement and its effects on people and structures. The Mercalli Scale is a tool that evaluates the perception of earthquakes in relation to their effects on the population and the environment. This scale, composed of twelve levels, allows for the classification of seismic events according to their severity. Thus, while some earthquakes are felt slightly or not at all, others can cause concern and significant damage, depending on their magnitude and location. In terms of magnitude, it refers to the amount of energy released by an earthquake. This parameter should not be confused with intensity, as magnitude provides a single value that represents the size of the seismic event, regardless of its perception at the surface. Scientists have established that for an earthquake to be felt, it must release enough energy to cause ground movement that can be detected by an observer in the affected area. However, most earthquakes in Chile go unnoticed by the population, demonstrating the country's ability to withstand tectonic movements without resulting in fatal consequences. In this sense, it is essential for the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (Senapred) to issue information about the earthquakes that have been effectively felt by people, as this indicates that the event has had a significant impact in the affected area. Despite technological advancements and the experience gained in other countries, earthquake prediction remains a challenge. Currently, there is no organization or government in the world that can accurately predict the date or recurrence of an earthquake. However, scientists are improving their ability to assess the hazards and risks associated with these phenomena. This includes studying the tectonic plates that converge along Chile and the geological faults that may be responsible for earthquakes. Understanding the seismic sources and assessing the most likely scenarios are crucial steps to mitigate disasters and improve the population's preparedness for a potential major earthquake. Despite the complexity of seismicity in the country, there are no areas in Chile without seismic activity, highlighting the importance of always being alert and prepared. In summary, education and information are essential tools for the Chilean population in managing seismic risk. Understanding the characteristics of earthquakes, how they are measured, and what impact they can have on daily life is fundamental for living in a country that, despite its seismic challenges, continues to move towards greater resilience. In a context where earthquakes are part of daily life, it is imperative that citizens understand the nature of these phenomena and stay informed to act appropriately when they occur.