A small earthquake was felt in the northern part of the state, registering a magnitude of 3.1 on the Richter scale. The tremor’s epicenter was pinpointed in the town of Cumbres Mayores, an area noted for its rocky terrain and close ties to nearby communities. Residents described a brief but noticeable shaking that prompted quick, cautious responses from those who experienced it.
According to the National Geographic Institute, the event occurred at 20:28 local time on the peninsula, with the shaking continuing in distinct phases until the tremors subsided around 20:30. The short duration was typical for a minor quake, yet it prompted residents to check on structures and personal safety, even as no requests for assistance were issued.
#earthquake 20/05/2023 18:28:17UTC GB CUMBRES MAYORES_H mag=3.1 depth=5km revised calculation
The seismology team released a note indicating that the coordinates of the epicenter place it in the region near Cumbres Mayores, with a depth reported at eight kilometers originally, though later discussions referenced a revised figure closer to five kilometers. The latitude was recorded at 38.0559, and the longitude at -6.6567, coordinates that helped seismologists map the event and assess potential impacts.
Residents and authorities indicated there were no calls or reports of personal or property damage in connection with this incident, underscoring its low risk profile despite the noticeable ground movement. The absence of damage messages typically aligns with a quake of this magnitude and depth, especially when it occurs on bedrock or stable soil in sparsely populated zones.