In the early hours of June 19, 2025, two moderate earthquakes struck South America, with one hitting Colombia and the other Argentina. The first earthquake, measuring M 4.6, occurred 35 km southeast of Mountain, Colombia, with a depth of 10.00 km. The second earthquake, also measuring M 4.6, struck 83 km northeast of San Martín, Argentina, at a much deeper depth of 151.29 km.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes were felt at the epicenter locations, but there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. Despite their similar magnitudes, the differences in depth can influence how strongly an earthquake is felt in nearby areas. Shallow earthquakes, like the one in Colombia, tend to be felt more intensely on the surface, while deeper earthquakes, like the one in Argentina, may be felt over a broader area but with less intensity.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in South America, as the continent sits on multiple tectonic plates, leading to frequent seismic activity. The Andes mountain range, which runs along the western edge of the continent, is a hotspot for earthquake activity due to the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.
While the recent earthquakes did not cause significant damage, they serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and building resilience in earthquake-prone regions. Governments and communities in South America continue to invest in earthquake monitoring and early warning systems to mitigate the impact of seismic events.
As we continue to monitor seismic activity in the region, it is essential for residents to stay informed, have emergency plans in place, and be aware of safety protocols during earthquakes. By working together and staying vigilant, we can better protect ourselves and our communities from the unpredictable forces of nature.
References:
– M 4.6 – 35 km SE of Mountain, Colombia. (2025, June 19). United States Geological Survey. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000ql63
– M 4.6 – 83 km NNE of San Martín, Argentina. (2025, June 19). United States Geological Survey. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000ql6l
