Earthquake of magnitude 2.9 unsettles residents of Pasto and its surroundings.

On Thursday night, a magnitude 2.9 earthquake shook southwestern Colombia, waking numerous residents of the city of Pasto and its surroundings. The phenomenon was recorded at 10:04 p.m. and occurred at a depth considered shallow, less than 30 kilometers, according to a report from the Colombian Geological Service (SGC). Although the magnitude of the tremor was not alarming in technical terms, the unease it generated in the population was palpable. The inhabitants of San Juan de Pasto, as well as those from other nearby municipalities, felt the ground movement which, in the words of some users on the social media platform X, was "short, but substantial." Such comments reflect the surprise and concern the event generated, especially among those who were preparing to rest at the end of the day. The feeling of insecurity is understandable, particularly in a region that has been experiencing increasing seismic activity in recent days. According to the SGC's Sismo Sentido platform, the tremor was felt in at least 15 municipalities, with variations in intensity reported by citizens. This collective perception of fear serves as a reminder of the emotional impact that earthquakes can have on communities that, while accustomed to such phenomena, still feel anxiety at the prospect of a stronger event. The SGC had issued a statement on August 17 detailing that, since August 15, there had been an increase in seismic activity in the region, especially near La Cocha lagoon. This information had raised alarms among the population, who live with the anxiety that the situation could worsen. The combination of minor tremors and the fear of a stronger earthquake creates an atmosphere of anxiety within the community. Experts indicate that seismic activity is normal in Colombia, a country located in a highly tectonic zone. However, the frequency and intensity of recent tremors have led many to question whether they should be more vigilant. Local authorities have urged the population to remain calm and to stay informed about safety protocols in the event of a potential earthquake. The phenomenon has also sparked debate among citizens on social media, where they share their experiences and feelings following the tremor. For some, the situation is concerning; for others, it is an opportunity to reflect on preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters. Such online interactions reflect the community's need to process their fear and seek support from their peers. Additionally, the tremors have highlighted the importance of having an early warning system and education about earthquakes. Experts point out that knowledge about how to act in the event of an earthquake can make a difference in protecting lives. Therefore, it is essential for citizens to be informed and prepared to face risk situations. The anxiety generated by tonight's tremor in Pasto serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the vulnerability of communities in the face of seismic phenomena. Although the earthquake did not have devastating consequences, unease persists, and it is crucial for authorities and the population to work together in mitigating risks and preparing for future earthquakes. In conclusion, the seismic activity in Nariño has created a climate of concern among its inhabitants. The community is faced with uncertainty, and it is crucial to promote education and preparedness regarding natural disasters to effectively respond to any eventuality that may arise. The recent earthquake serves as a wake-up call about the need to always be ready, not only for natural phenomena but also for the emotional impact they can have on people's daily lives.