Strong earthquake in the Pacific reignites awareness of risks in Colombia.

In the early hours of September 5, a strong earthquake measuring 4.5 in magnitude shook the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Colombia, generating concern among the population. The Colombian Geological Service, responsible for monitoring and reporting seismic activity in the country, reported that the event occurred at a shallow depth, which increased its perception in nearby communities. This event rekindles interest and emphasizes the importance of being informed about seismic activity in a nation that has historically faced these natural phenomena. Colombia is a seismically active country due to the interaction of several tectonic plates: Nazca, South America, and the Caribbean. The complex geological dynamics of the country lead to earthquakes occurring in much of its territory. According to data from the Colombian Geological Service, an average of around 2,500 earthquakes occur each month, translating to approximately 80 tremors daily. However, most of these events are of low magnitude and are not perceptible to the population. The location of the epicenter in the ocean highlights the unpredictable nature of earthquakes. Although many of them do not cause significant damage, it is crucial for the population to be prepared and to understand the risks associated with seismic activity. The Colombian Geological Service has emphasized the importance of citizens knowing what to do in the event of a tremor and remaining calm during such situations, following proposed safety guidelines. It is worth noting that the current perception of an increase in earthquake frequency is due to greater awareness of seismic activity, facilitated by technological advancements and access to real-time information. This has allowed more people to report their experiences through platforms like Sismos Sentido, where citizens can inform about the tremors they have felt. This data collection is vital for authorities, as it helps them quickly assess the effects of an earthquake and coordinate responses to potential emergencies. When an earthquake is reported, the Colombian Geological Service relies on information provided by citizens to determine the magnitude of the event and its impact on communities. The intensity of an earthquake can vary depending on factors such as the distance from the epicenter, its depth, and its magnitude. Therefore, citizen reports are essential for building a more accurate picture of seismic activity. Earthquakes occur due to the release of accumulated energy in the Earth's crust caused by various factors, such as the movement of tectonic plates, volcanic activity, and some human interventions, such as resource extraction or fluid injection into the ground. This release of energy manifests itself in the form of seismic waves that, upon reaching the surface, can cause movement and, in cases of high magnitude, lead to damage. Traditionally, the Richter scale has been used to measure the magnitude of earthquakes, but currently, the moment magnitude scale is preferred, as it provides a more accurate assessment. The measurement of an earthquake's magnitude and depth is carried out through a network of seismological stations that record ground movements, allowing experts to calculate the energy released and locate the event's epicenter. In the event of a tremor, the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) has published a series of recommendations that are essential for ensuring the safety of the population. These include remaining calm, seeking a safe place, avoiding the use of elevators, and paying attention to the authorities' instructions. Preparation and education are key to mitigating the risks associated with seismic activity. In conclusion, the earthquake of September 5 serves as a reminder of Colombia's geological reality and the need to remain alert and prepared. Information and education are powerful tools for facing these natural phenomena and minimizing their effects on the daily lives of Colombians. Collaboration between citizens and institutions is essential to build a more resilient country in the face of seismic activity.