Strong earthquake of 4.8 in Santander raises concerns but no significant damage.

On the night of Tuesday, August 27, Colombia was shaken by a strong tremor that alerted a large part of the population. According to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), the earthquake had a magnitude of 4.8, and its epicenter was located in the municipality of Los Santos, in the department of Santander. This seismic event, which was recorded at a depth of 147 kilometers, caused concern among residents of various regions of the country, who felt it with intensity. Los Santos, known for being one of the most seismic places in Colombia, is located just 10 kilometers from the epicenter. Other nearby municipalities, such as Jordán and Betulia, also experienced the vibrations of the quake. However, despite the magnitude and the location where it originated, the SGC reported that no significant damage has been recorded so far, bringing relief to authorities and residents. The tremor was felt not only in Santander but also had an impact in several departments such as Antioquia, Norte de Santander, Boyacá, Caldas, Cundinamarca, Tolima, Bolívar, Cesar, Magdalena, Atlántico, Córdoba, La Guajira, and Risaralda. There were even reports from people in Bogotá who claimed to have felt the seismic movement, highlighting the extent of the phenomenon. Through social media, citizens shared their experiences, confirming that the earthquake was perceived in different areas. However, it is noteworthy that in Los Santos, despite being the epicenter, many of its inhabitants have developed an adaptability to these natural events, and some did not even feel the tremor. The geology of the region helps to explain why Los Santos is such an active seismic node. According to the SGC, it is estimated that there is an ancient subduction zone that extends from Boyacá to Norte de Santander, contributing to its high seismicity. Analysis from the Colombian Seismological Network reveals that between 2001 and 2005, approximately 18,000 seismic movements were recorded in this area, demonstrating a pattern of constant activity. Additionally, the existence of the Bucaramanga Seismic Nest, one of the most active in the world, plays a crucial role in the seismicity of the region. This phenomenon is due to the concentration of stresses resulting from the convergence of several lithospheric plates, which exacerbates seismic activity in the area. The combination of these geological conditions increases the likelihood of tremors occurring, sometimes even multiple in a single day. Despite the inherent risk, the population of Los Santos has learned to coexist with these seismic movements, and their resilience has been the subject of study. For many, life continues normally, as tremors have become part of the daily environment. However, the importance of staying alert to these natural phenomena remains a key issue for authorities. In the context of this unsettling night, President Gustavo Petro also announced that he would not present the forced investment project after reaching an agreement with the banking sector for $55 trillion. This announcement, although not directly related to the earthquake, highlights the complexity of the challenges the country faces on various fronts, from managing natural crises to addressing the national economy. As the country processes the repercussions of the earthquake, it is essential to continue educating the population about seismic activity and reinforce structures in the most vulnerable areas. With the accumulated experience, Colombians are called to be prepared for future tremors, remembering that while the earth can be unpredictable, resilience and preparation are key to facing any eventuality.