### 793 Earthquakes Recorded in Baja California in 2024
Throughout 2024, Baja California experienced a total of 793 earthquakes, according to Luis Humberto Mendoza Garcilazo, the head of the seismology department at the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada (CICESE). These events exceeded a magnitude of two, and if those of minimum magnitude are included, the total number of seismic events reaches 2,850.
The latest significant earthquake occurred on December 5th, with a magnitude of 3.9, located 56 kilometers off the coast of Playas de Rosarito. Although noticeable, not all seismic activities make it to the record books due to the lack of nearby instrumentation for detecting lower magnitudes.
Mendoza Garcilazo emphasized that Baja California is affected by around 12 faults, leading to consistent seismic activity throughout the year. While exact annual figures are unpredictable, history shows variability depending on the occurrence of larger quakes. For instance, the major earthquake in April 2010 resulted in 15,000 aftershocks by mid-June of that year, showcasing how the seismicity varies annually.
Across the region, seismic awareness remains crucial, especially since recent low-magnitude tremors, such as the 3.6 magnitude quake in Playas de Rosarito, were barely perceptible in nearby Tijuana. Hence, monitoring and preparedness are essential for residents living in this seismically active zone.
### Additional Developments:
Local authorities in Baja California continue to emphasize the importance of earthquake preparedness, considering the region’s vulnerability. The Civil Protection and emergency services frequently update plans to ensure residents are equipped to handle potential seismic events.
As seismic monitoring improves, researchers and officials are working together to increase awareness among the public. Educational campaigns and drills are part of ongoing efforts to enhance community resilience against the region’s seismic threats.
Despite the challenges posed by earthquake predictions, advancements in technology and increased collaboration between scientific bodies are paving the way for more precise monitoring capabilities. This progress is crucial for minimizing the impact of potential future quakes in the area.