A 6.3 magnitude earthquake shook central Colombia, causing panic and damage, especially in Paratebueno. The quake struck at 8:08 am, about 170 kilometers from Bogotá, with no serious injuries reported. Emergency services are investigating damage while residents cope with aftershocks.
On Sunday morning, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 struck central Colombia, sending local residents into a panic. The tremor, which occurred at 8:08 am, was centered about 170 kilometers (105 miles) east of Bogotá, with its effects felt widely across the nation. Sirens sounded, and buildings swayed as Colombians rushed outside to safety amid fears of structural damage.
In the town of Paratebueno, the epicenter of the quake, AFP reporters observed significant destruction, including a white church with a severely damaged wall and several collapsed structures with zinc roofs. Residents were seen digging through debris, but thankfully, authorities indicated there were no serious injuries reported thus far.
In the capital city, Bogotá, home to around eight million people, the quake resulted in widespread chaos. Tall structures visibly shook, creaking under pressure for nearly a minute, while furniture and decor rattled violently. Thousands fled their homes, some still in their pajamas, finding refuge in parks and open areas. Families were seen comforting frightened children and searching for pets.
Carlos Alberto Ruiz, 54, described the event as a major fright, stating, “It was a big scare,” as he evacuated with his family and dog. Francisco Gonzalez, a lawyer, echoed these sentiments, reflecting on how they had not experienced such a strong quake in Bogotá for some time.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake struck at a depth of approximately nine kilometers (5.5 miles). The tremors were so powerful that they were felt as far as Medellín and Cali, cities located near the Pacific coast. Bogotá’s security department announced that emergency responders were actively assessing damage and providing assistance where necessary.
Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan reported that all disaster response agencies had been mobilized in light of the earthquake. Central Colombia is known for its high seismic activity, with a significant 6.2 magnitude quake occurring in 1999 that resulted in nearly 1,200 fatalities. It’s important to note that Colombia sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region recognized for intense tectonic activity that stretches across multiple continents.
The 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck central Colombia caused widespread concern and disrupted daily life, but fortunately, it appears that there were no major injuries. Communities have reported various degrees of damage but are currently focusing on recovery and assessment efforts. As authorities remain vigilant, it highlights the ongoing seismic risks faced by the nation.
Original Source: www.france24.com
