Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
August 20 has been a distressing day for the inhabitants of Colombia, as the country has experienced a series of earthquakes that have kept the population on edge. According to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), more than five tremors have been reported in different regions, generating a state of alert, especially in the departments of Bolívar, Santander, and Cesar. Although the magnitude of most of the earthquakes was low, the repetition of these events has exacerbated citizens' concerns. The most significant earthquake of the day was recorded in the department of Casanare, with a magnitude of 3.8. This tremor occurred at a shallow depth, which intensified its perception among the population. The location of the epicenter, at coordinates 4.83°N and -72.74°W, places this event in one of the most seismically active regions of the country, adding another layer of uncertainty regarding the safety of its inhabitants. The SGC has been closely monitoring the series of earthquakes and has urged the population to remain calm and be prepared for the possibility of aftershocks. Despite the fact that the magnitude of the tremors was not alarming in terms of physical damage, the feeling of insecurity has permeated the affected municipalities. Citizens have shared their experiences, describing moments of panic and the rapid evacuation of buildings and homes. The SGC has indicated that these events are common in certain regions of the country, where tectonic activity is more frequent. However, the accumulation of several earthquakes in a single day can lead the population to question the geological stability of their environment. As citizens adapt to living with this seismic uncertainty, education on how to react to tremors becomes more crucial than ever. Community leaders in the affected areas have begun holding meetings to discuss emergency plans and raise awareness among citizens about the importance of being prepared. In many cases, schools and other public spaces are implementing evacuation drills, aiming to minimize the risk in the event of a more severe seismic event in the future. Amid this uncertainty, social media has been an important channel for sharing information and experiences. Many Colombians have used digital platforms to coordinate relief efforts and to inform others about the situation in their localities. This solidarity among citizens reflects a sense of community that can be crucial in times of crisis. Although most of the earthquakes reported so far have been of low magnitude, the psychological impact of these events should not be underestimated. Anxiety and fear can accompany those living in earthquake-prone areas, and it is essential that emotional support resources are offered to the population. Authorities must consider these aspects when evaluating emergency responses. With the arrival of the rainy season in many regions, the combination of adverse weather conditions and seismic activity may increase the risk of natural disasters. Preparation and planning are essential to protect communities and reduce the potential consequences of these events. Meanwhile, the SGC will continue its monitoring and evaluation work, providing updates to the population. Collaboration between government institutions, local communities, and geology experts will be key to facing the challenges posed by seismic activity in Colombia. As Colombians deal with this new reality, it is clear that resilience and preparedness will be fundamental to ensuring the safety and well-being of all.