This morning, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake was felt in the southern neighborhoods of Mar del Plata, Argentina, particularly between the lighthouse and Chapadmalal. The tremor originated at a shallow depth of about 9 kilometers under the Atlantic Ocean, a rare occurrence for this region in Buenos Aires province. The event took place at 8:15 am local time according to the National Institute of Seismic Prevention (Inpres). As the city was already quiet due to a general strike by the CGT, residents were startled and many left their homes to understand what had happened.

The Inpres reports confirmed the earthquake measured 4.9 on the Richter scale, a significant level for this area, which is not accustomed to seismic activity. Experts have ruled out any possibility of a tsunami resulting from this tremor since its intensity was categorized as low. Nevertheless, this unusual event caused quite a stir among the local populace, marking a significant but mild reminder of natural forces at play in the region's coastal dynamics.

Neighborhoods across Mar del Plata experienced varying degrees of alarm, with some residents expressing disbelief and others sharing their experiences over social media. The event highlights a need for awareness and preparedness for seismic activities, even in regions where such occurrences are infrequent. As more details emerge, authorities will continue to monitor any aftershocks or related events, ensuring public safety is prioritized in the wake of this surprising natural incident.