A magnitude 4.3 earthquake shakes Uribe, Meta, with no damage reported so far.

In the early morning of July 30, a magnitude 4.3 earthquake shook the town of Uribe, in the Meta department of Colombia. The seismic event, which was recorded at a shallow depth, has not yet resulted in reports of serious damage. This tremor adds to the long list of earthquakes that occur in the country, which is characterized by its seismic activity due to the interaction of various tectonic plates, such as Nazca, South America, and the Caribbean. Colombia is a country that experiences around 2,500 earthquakes per month, which translates to approximately 80 tremors daily. However, the vast majority of these phenomena are of low magnitude and go unnoticed by the population. The areas most prone to seismic activity are the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as regions near the mountain ranges. Despite this reality, many citizens feel anxiety about the possibility of a strong earthquake, highlighting the need to be prepared and educated about the phenomenon. Experts from the Colombian Geological Service have reiterated that, contrary to popular belief, there is no real increase in the frequency of tremors; rather, the population is now more aware of the phenomenon. This is due to the availability of resources, tools, and information channels that facilitate the detection and dissemination of earthquakes. In this context, it is essential for residents of seismically active regions to know safety measures and actions to take during a tremor. Feeling an earthquake depends on various factors, such as the magnitude and depth of the event, as well as the distance from the epicenter. The importance of reporting these events is crucial, as it allows authorities to quickly assess the effects and coordinate necessary responses. To this end, the Colombian Geological Service has launched the "Sismo Sentido" platform, where citizens can report if they have felt a tremor, thereby contributing data that improves risk management. The dynamics of earthquakes are linked to the release of accumulated energy in tectonic plates, generating waves that propagate and can be perceived at the surface. These movements can cause significant damage to infrastructure and the natural environment, such as landslides. Therefore, it is essential for the population to be informed about the causes of earthquakes and best practices to mitigate their effects. In addition to tectonic movements, other factors such as volcanic activity and certain human practices, such as the extraction of energy resources, can trigger earthquakes. This knowledge is key to understanding the geology of the country and implementing strategies for prevention and response to seismic emergencies. The magnitude and depth of an earthquake are determined through data collected by monitoring stations that analyze ground movements. Historically, the Richter scale was used to measure the magnitude of earthquakes, but today the moment magnitude scale is preferred, as it provides more accurate measurements. Therefore, it is common to hear that an earthquake has a specific magnitude without the reference to degrees that was previously customary. Regarding depth, different types of waves recorded during an earthquake are used to determine the location and intensity of the event. This analysis is crucial for better understanding the phenomenon and preparing the population for future seismic events. The difference in arrival times of the waves at the surface allows for the identification of their origin and, consequently, their depth. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has recommended a series of safety measures in the event of a tremor. These include staying calm, taking cover under a table or solid structure, avoiding windows and objects that may fall, and always having a family evacuation plan. Prevention and education are fundamental pillars for facing the seismic reality in Colombia. The recent earthquake in Uribe serves as a reminder that tectonic activity is an integral part of Colombia's geography. Being informed and prepared is essential for facing these natural events, which, although unpredictable, can be managed with the appropriate measures. Awareness of seismic activity, along with a prompt response from authorities, can make a difference in the face of a phenomenon that, although not always felt, is part of life in this nation.