"Tremors in Nariño and Santander keep residents of Colombia on alert."

The night of August 30 was tumultuous for the residents of Colombia, especially for those in the regions of Nariño and Santander, where three seismic movements were recorded in less than three hours. The last earthquake, measuring 3.0 in magnitude, occurred in Tumaco, Nariño, at a shallow depth, according to the report from the Colombian Geological Service. Despite the unease caused by such a natural phenomenon, no significant damage has been reported in the area so far, allowing authorities to maintain calm among the population. The series of tremors began at 10:10 PM, when the first movement was felt in Los Santos, Santander, quickly followed by a 3.2 magnitude aftershock just two minutes later. This type of seismic activity is not unusual in Colombia, a country located in a geologically active zone where several tectonic plates, such as Nazca, South America, and the Caribbean, interact. These interactions are responsible for the complex geological dynamics that characterize the Colombian territory. According to the Colombian Geological Service, it is common for the country to experience an average of 2,500 earthquakes per month, which amounts to approximately 80 earthquakes daily. However, most of these are of low magnitude and are not perceptible to the population. The areas most prone to experiencing tremors are the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as the mountainous regions of the country. Despite this usual activity, the population remains inadequately prepared to face an earthquake of greater magnitude. It is essential for citizens to be informed and prepared for the possibility of a tremor. Knowing the specific risks of each region, as well as having an action plan in case of earthquakes, is crucial to minimizing damage and protecting people. The Colombian Geological Service emphasizes that, although it may seem that the frequency of earthquakes has increased, in reality, there is greater awareness and capacity for detection and reporting, facilitated by current technology. Feeling an earthquake depends on several factors, such as magnitude, depth of the epicenter, and the distance of individuals from it. Therefore, it is crucial for those who experience a seismic movement to report its occurrence, as this information allows authorities to quickly assess the effects of the event and coordinate an appropriate response. The Colombian Geological Service has enabled online forms, such as "Felt Earthquake," which allow the population to submit data about their experience during a tremor, helping to determine the intensity of the movement and improve understanding of the seismic threat in the country. Earthquakes are caused by the release of accumulated energy in tectonic plates, a phenomenon that propagates in the form of waves. When these waves reach the surface, they generate movements that can be felt by people, which can cause damage to infrastructure and the environment. The causes of earthquakes are diverse, ranging from natural tectonic activity to volcanic events and, in some cases, human activities that disrupt geological stability. The magnitude and depth of an earthquake are calculated through monitoring equipment distributed throughout the territory. As these devices record ground movements, the seismic energy released at the focus of the event can be determined. Although the Richter scale was widely used in the past, the moment magnitude scale is currently preferred, as it provides a more accurate and universal measurement, moving away from the idea of classifying earthquakes by degrees. In the event of a tremor, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) recommends that the population remain calm and follow certain safety guidelines. These include taking cover under sturdy furniture, staying away from windows and objects that may fall, and having a clear evacuation plan in case the situation worsens. Preparedness and education are key to effectively facing natural disasters in a country with such an active seismic history as Colombia. As the night continued in Colombia, the citizens of Tumaco and other affected regions remained alert, attentive to possible aftershocks and hopeful that the tremors would not bring further surprises. The resilience and response capacity of the population are essential in the face of a natural phenomenon that, although common, always brings with it a degree of uncertainty and fear.