**Minor Earthquake Hits Rosarito: Tijuana Experiences Minimal Impact**
On the morning of December 5, 2024, a minor earthquake with a magnitude of 3.6 struck near Playas de Rosarito, located approximately 56 kilometers from the coast. The tremor was barely noticeable in Tijuana, prompting a swift response from local authorities. The director of the Municipal Civil Protection, José Luis Jiménez, reported that the seismic alert was activated in Tijuana’s City Hall, leading to the evacuation of 726 individuals, including both employees and visitors.
The evacuation procedure at City Hall was efficiently executed in 2 minutes and 50 seconds. By 10:53 AM, everyone had returned to their routines in the municipal offices. Jiménez detailed that the quake occurred near the San Ysidro fault located in the Pacific Ocean. While it was perceptible in certain areas like Zona Río, the impact was minimal across other parts of Tijuana.
Despite the initial activation of a tsunami alert along the coasts of California and Oregon, no impact was observed in Tijuana. Jiménez assured that there were no reports of damage in Rosarito or in the surrounding areas. Protection Civil maintained communication with state coordination to confirm that everything was normal, thus dismissing the possibility of any significant wave activity along Baja California’s coasts.
**Secondary Article: Rising Seismic Awareness in Tijuana**
In recent times, Tijuana has been increasingly conscious of its vulnerability to seismic activities. According to the Municipal Civil Protection (PCM), while the recent earthquake in Rosarito was minimal, it serves as a reminder of Tijuana’s susceptibility to larger seismic events. Despite the lack of immediate danger from the recent tremor, experts emphasize the importance of public awareness and preparedness.
Local authorities are urging residents to educate themselves on earthquake safety measures. This includes understanding evacuation procedures, assembling emergency kits, and being aware of safe spots within homes and workplaces. The PCM is collaborating with educational institutions and community groups to enhance public knowledge and readiness.
Additionally, a proposal is in discussion regarding the reinforcement of infrastructure, particularly in public and high-traffic buildings, to better withstand potential future seismic occurrences. The city also plans to implement regular drills and workshops to equip citizens with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle such events effectively.
By fostering a culture of preparedness, Tijuana aims to mitigate risks and ensure that its community can respond swiftly and safely in the event of a more significant earthquake.