- Recent earthquake: A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10, 2026. The epicentre was near San José del Palmar in Chocó, at a depth of about 107 km.
- Seismic setting: Colombia lies in a tectonically active region influenced by interactions involving the Nazca, South American and Caribbean plates.
- Pacific Ring of Fire: Colombia is associated with the broader Pacific Ring of Fire, making it vulnerable to frequent seismic activity.
- Deep-focus earthquake: The 2026 event occurred at considerable depth, demonstrating that significant earthquakes can produce widespread shaking even when their focus is relatively deep.
- Earthquake magnitude: The Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw) is commonly used for measuring the energy released by large earthquakes.
- Aftershocks: Several aftershocks were reported following the main shock.
Prelims Question – English
Q. With reference to the recent earthquake in Colombia, consider the following statements:
- Colombia is located in a seismically active region influenced by the interaction of major tectonic plates.
- The Pacific Ring of Fire is associated with intense tectonic and volcanic activity around the Pacific Ocean.
- Earthquake magnitude and earthquake intensity refer to exactly the same concept.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 – Correct: Colombia is situated in a tectonically active part of northwestern South America.
- Statement 2 – Correct: The Pacific Ring of Fire is a zone of intense seismic and volcanic activity surrounding much of the Pacific Ocean.
- Statement 3 – Incorrect: Magnitude measures the energy released at the earthquake source, while intensity describes the effects/shaking experienced at a particular location.
