Summary of the intracontinental seismicity of Uruguay

This work provides the first comprehensive summary of seismic activity in Uruguay, incorporating recent instrumental records. Maintaining a detailed and comprehensive seismic compilation is essential for assessing seismic risks in intracontinental regions, where earthquakes typically have longer recurrence periods than those in tectonically active zones. This compilation includes precise information about the date, time, epicenter location, hypocenter depth, and magnitude of seismic events. Uruguayan seismicity is characterized by low to moderate-magnitude events, consistent with its geological location away from major tectonic plate boundaries. The study analyzes data from the national seismological network, including broadband and short-period seismometers strategically distributed throughout the country. Focal mechanisms primarily indicate reverse faults with some strike-slip displacement, with fault planes having approximately N-S strikes, consistent with the regional stress regime. Notable seismic events are discussed, including the Florida earthquakes of 2021 and 2022 and the Atlántida earthquake of 2023. The research employs several long-known methodologies and novel ones, such as applying AI techniques to detect events. Public perception and response to seismic events are also analyzed, highlighting the importance of education on seismology and seismic risk. This study underscores the need for continuous seismic risk assessment, especially in southern and central Uruguay, and emphasizes the role of ancient geological structures in accommodating current tectonic stresses. The findings contribute to refining seismic hazard models for Uruguay and provide a foundation for future paleoseismic studies to understand long-term seismic patterns in this intracontinental region.