In recent days, Ecuador has been shaken by several earthquakes, leading the population to question the causes behind these natural phenomena. In this article, we will explore in depth why earthquakes occur in Ecuador, the types of earthquakes recorded, their causes, and the importance of understanding these events within the country's geological context.
Definition of Earthquake
Generally speaking, a earthquake It is defined as a shaking, movement, or vibration of the ground resulting from the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust. This energy release generally occurs due to the displacement of rock masses along a tectonic fault.
Types of Earthquakes
Earthquakes can be classified into different categories depending on their magnitude and the type of seismic event that causes them. In Ecuador, it is common to hear terms like earthquake, telluric movement y tremorAlthough these terms are technically synonymous, in popular usage they are differentiated:
- Un earthquake refers to an earthquake that causes significant damage, including casualties and destruction of infrastructure.
- Un tremor It is a minor earthquake that generally does not cause damage.
Geology of Ecuador and its Seismic Activity
Ecuador is located in a very active geological region, in the collision zone between the Nazca oceanic silver and South American continental silverThis interaction creates an environment conducive to the buildup of tensions in the tectonic plates, which are eventually released in the form of earthquakes.
El Geophysical Institute (IG) from the National Polytechnic School mentions that earthquakes can originate from various sources, including:
- Tectonic or geological faults.
- volcanoes.
- Meteorite collisions.
- Human activities, such as mining and nuclear testing.
The Nazca Plate and its Relationship with the Earthquake
Subduction is a key process in Ecuadorian geology. In this process, the Nazca silver sinks below the South American silver at a rate of approximately 6 centimeters per year. This subduction generates tensions that, when released, produce earthquakes. This dynamic is also responsible for the formation of mountains and volcanoes in the region.
The subduction of the Nazca plate is not only responsible for seismic activity, but also for volcanic activity in the Pacific Ring of FireThis region is famous for being one of the most active places on the planet in terms of seismic and volcanic activity.
The Importance of the Ring of Fire
El Pacific Ring of Fire It is a strip approximately 40,000 kilometers long that surrounds the Pacific Ocean and encompasses several countries, including Ecuador, Chile, and Peru. This belt experiences around 90% of earthquakes and 80% of the largest earthquakes in the world. In Ecuador, this phenomenon manifests itself through high-magnitude earthquakes, such as the one that occurred on April 16, 2016, with a magnitude of 7.8 and caused devastation along the country's northern coast.
This type of seismic activity is a common feature of the countries that make up the so-called "Pacific Horseshoe." The interaction between tectonic plates in this region generates not only earthquakes but also significant volcanic activity.
What Happens During an Earthquake?
When an earthquake occurs, waves of energy can be generated that travel through rocks and soil. These vibrations are felt on the surface as tremors or jolts. Depending on the magnitude of the earthquake, these movements can cause anything from mild tremors to devastating earthquakes that destroy entire buildings.
The magnitude of an earthquake is generally measured with the Richter scale and moment magnitude scaleThe readings on these scales indicate the energy released during the seismic event. An earthquake of magnitude 5.0 to 5.9 is considered low to moderate, while an earthquake of magnitude 7.0 or greater is classified as a strong earthquake.
Why Are Tremors Increasing in Napo and Other Regions?
Recently, a series of tremors have been recorded in Napo, raising concerns among residents. The IG has indicated that these seismic activities may be part of a seismic swarm, which is a series of earthquakes that do not follow a specific pattern. For example, in January 2025, multiple seismic events were recorded in Napo, including a magnitude 5.5 earthquake that was the strongest of the series.
Geological analysis indicates that these tremors are related to movement in faults that form the boundary of the Sliver Norandino, which is moving northeast and southwestward relative to the stable portion of South America. This movement is influenced by the Chingual-Cosanga-Pallatanga-Puná fault system, which extends from the Gulf of Guayaquil to Colombia.
Safety and Preparedness Measures
Seismic activity in Ecuador makes it crucial for the population to be prepared for these events. Some safety measures include:
- Know the evacuation routes in case of an earthquake.
- Follow the recommendations of the IG and other authorities regarding seismic activity.
- Adopt safe and earthquake-resistant construction practices.
In addition, it is important for communities to conduct drills and maintain updated emergency plans to minimize risk and losses during an earthquake.
Earthquake Statistics in Ecuador
Since the beginning of the 2016th century, Ecuador has experienced several significant earthquakes. For example, the 600 earthquake left more than XNUMX dead and thousands injured, in addition to extensive damage to infrastructure in the affected provinces. Earthquakes in Ecuador not only cause loss of life but also generate economic damages considerable.
A 2014 study indicated that the 90% of the earthquakes occur in the Ring of Fire, confirming Ecuador's position in a region of high seismic risk.
Future perspectives
As scientists continue to study seismic activity in Ecuador, progress is expected to be made in prediction and risk management. This includes the development of technologies more advanced monitoring systems and the implementation of better construction practices that can withstand strong seismic events.
Education about seismic activity and preparedness measures will also play a key role in reducing the population's vulnerability to future earthquakes.
The Importance of Seismic Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of seismic activity in Ecuador is essential to provide early information about potential earthquakes. The IG and other institutions cooperate in the collection and analysis of seismic data to help predict future events and improve evacuation and emergency response strategies.
Understanding why earthquakes occur in Ecuador is essential not only for the safety of the population, but also for developing strategies to mitigate the impact of these events on the country's life and economy. As we continue to learn more about our geology and the associated risks, it is essential that all Ecuadorians be prepared and aware of their seismic environment.
