Fear in Pasto after a magnitude 3.3 earthquake shook the Colombian region.

The recent earthquake of magnitude 3.3 that shook the city of Pasto, in Nariño, Colombia, has raised concern and alert among the residents of the region. The seismic event occurred at 10:50 a.m., with a shallow depth that allowed a large number of people to feel it. In response to this natural phenomenon, the Colombian Geological Service (SGC) has urged the population to remain vigilant and report any experiences related to the tremor through its official platform. Colombia is a country located in a seismically active zone, resulting from the interaction of several tectonic plates, such as Nazca, South America, and the Caribbean. This geological dynamic makes earthquakes a regular part of life in many regions of the country. Statistics indicate that, on average, approximately 2,500 earthquakes occur each month in Colombian territory, although most of them go unnoticed by the population. The Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as mountainous areas, are particularly prone to seismic activity. However, the recent experience of the residents of Pasto highlights the need to be prepared for the possibility of an earthquake, regardless of its magnitude. Preparation is key to minimizing risks and inadequate reactions during these events. Despite the perception that earthquakes are more frequent nowadays, the SGC clarifies that this is not entirely true. The growing awareness of seismic activity and the availability of tools and information channels have allowed the population to be more informed about the earthquakes occurring in the country. This phenomenon has also led to an increase in the number of reports of felt earthquakes, which is essential for an adequate response to emergencies. The intensity of an earthquake is measured through a system of information collection that allows citizens to report their experiences. This information is essential for the SGC, as it helps them quickly estimate the effects of the earthquake and coordinate emergency responses. Each report provides valuable data that can influence decision-making by emergency response authorities. Earthquakes, as a natural phenomenon, occur due to the release of accumulated energy in the Earth's crust, generating seismic waves that propagate and are perceived on the surface. The causes can vary from the movement of tectonic plates to volcanic activity and certain human activities such as resource extraction and fluid injection into the subsurface. The magnitude and depth of an earthquake are calculated based on data collected by monitoring stations that register ground movements. Although the Richter scale was the traditional tool for measuring earthquakes, more precise methods are now used, such as moment magnitude, which offers a more accurate assessment of the energy released during an earthquake. In the case of the tremor in Pasto, the event's depth and location were key to understanding its impact on the population. The seismic waves generated traveled at different speeds, allowing experts to determine the magnitude and depth accurately. This is essential to ensure that authorities are prepared to respond effectively. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has shared essential recommendations for the population in case of earthquakes. These include staying calm, seeking shelter, and moving away from windows and objects that may fall. Education and preparedness are vital for communities to respond adequately to these unexpected events. As the country continues to experience seismic activity, it is crucial for Colombians to stay informed and prepared. Collaboration between citizens and authorities can make a difference in emergency management and the safety of the population in the face of future tremors.