Earthquake felt in several areas of Quito: 'It was a strong shake'
A 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Quito, prompting reactions from local residents who reported varying intensities of the tremor.
On the evening of the earthquake, a seismic event measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale was recorded at 8:57 PM, located approximately 26.86 kilometers from Quito in the Pichincha province, with a depth of 11 kilometers according to the Geophysical Institute. This quake caught the attention of many residents in Quito and the surrounding areas due to its intensity and suddenness.
Local residents reported experiencing significant shaking; for instance, one person described a very strong jolt that rattled windows, stating it only lasted about five to six seconds. Various areas, including Pomasqui, Guayallabamba, and San Antonio, reported feeling the quake distinctly, while others like Tabacundo noted it as a lighter tremor. The mixed reports from social media highlighted the varying experiences among different neighborhoods within the region.
Earthquakes are relatively common in Ecuador, a country situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for its seismic activity. The most recent quake serves as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks or more significant seismic events in the future. While this quake was relatively minor, its felt strength prompts essential discussions on earthquake preparedness across the region.