Alarms are rising in Neuquén: 500 earthquakes in Vaca Muerta raise concerns.

In a context of growing environmental and social concern, Vaca Muerta, the megafield of hydrocarbons in the province of Neuquén, has reached an alarming milestone: the 500th seismic event since records began in 2018. This "swarm" of earthquakes has sparked an increasingly intense debate about the implications of oil activity in the region, which has become a focal point for both the scientific community and the local population. The latest earthquake occurred early today at 1:30 AM, just 42 kilometers from Añelo, one of the towns most affected by hydrocarbon development. With a magnitude of 2.7 and an epicenter located five kilometers deep, the event adds to a concerning tally that, according to estimates, could be even higher, given the omission of smaller quakes in official records. From the Regional Seismology Observatory, it has been emphasized that while 500 earthquakes have been recorded, the actual number could be much higher. The lack of access to complete data and the limited visibility of information regarding earthquakes smaller than 2.5 have hindered a thorough analysis of this increasing seismic activity. This situation has led the scientific community to question the transparency and management of information related to the effects of hydrocarbon production. One of the most troubling aspects pointed out by experts is the absence of a response protocol for these seismic events. Although induced seismicity has been recognized as a phenomenon stemming from resource extraction activities, it has not been considered in the environmental impact studies approved by the Neuquén Environment Secretariat. This creates a regulatory gap that could have serious repercussions on public safety and the natural environment. Local authorities and industry leaders have been criticized for not adequately addressing the environmental consequences of the earthquakes. Given that Vaca Muerta is located in a region that historically had not recorded seismic activity, the arrival of this phenomenon has taken both residents and researchers by surprise. The concern lies in the fact that, without proper regulation, the long-term effects of these tremors are unpredictable. From the community's perspective, there is a sense of uncertainty and anxiety. Many residents of the towns near extraction areas have expressed their worries about the safety of their homes and the impact on their daily lives. The possibility of a significant earthquake causing considerable damage looms over their heads, and the lack of clear information and emergency protocols only exacerbates their unease. The debate over induced seismicity in Vaca Muerta is not merely a technical issue; it intertwines with questions of social and environmental justice. The scientific community and environmental activists have begun to demand a more rigorous and transparent approach that considers not only the economic benefits of hydrocarbon exploitation but also the potential repercussions on the safety and well-being of people. In this regard, the responsibility falls on the involved parties: the provincial government, sector companies, and the scientific community. It is urgent to establish a clear regulatory framework that not only addresses seismic activity but also guarantees the safety of the residents of Neuquén. Demands for appropriate environmental management are gaining relevance on the public agenda, and it is essential that the voices of those living in the area are heard. The current situation in Vaca Muerta serves as a reminder of the complexity and risks associated with the exploitation of natural resources. As the pressure to obtain energy resources increases, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of life and the environment. As we move toward an uncertain future, the call to action becomes increasingly urgent. The community and experts in seismology demand answers, as well as a thorough review of the policies governing hydrocarbon activity in the region.