Powerful 6.3 Magnitude Quake Strikes Central Colombia, Damaging Buildings
A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck central Colombia on Sunday morning, causing significant structural damage, particularly in Paratebueno and Bogotá. Although no serious injuries were reported, residents experienced widespread panic. Authorities are investigating damages and providing assistance as emergency services are activated.
A powerful earthquake registering a magnitude of 6.3 hit central Colombia on Sunday, sending residents into a frenzied scramble for safety. The quake occurred at 8:08 AM, around 170 kilometers east of Bogotá, with tremors felt widely across the country, causing buildings to sway and sirens to sound, leading to panic.
In Paratebueno, near the quake’s epicenter, journalists reported seeing several buildings partially collapsed, including a church whose wall sustained significant damage. Nearby, residents sifted through the remains of structures with zinc roofs that had crumbled under the tremor. Fortunately, there have not been any reports of serious injuries; however, authorities are examining damage in several nearby villages.
In Bogotá, home to approximately eight million people, the lengthy tremor caused considerable alarm. Tall buildings creaked and swayed for nearly a minute, while furniture shook vigorously. Many residents, some still in their pajamas, fled to parks and open spaces in search of safety amidst the chaos. Parents attempted to reassure frightened children, couples embraced during the frightening episode, and others frantically looked for their missing pets.
“It was a big scare,” recounted Carlos Alberto Ruiz, 54, who evacuated his apartment along with his family and dog. Francisco Gonzalez, a lawyer, echoed this sentiment noting, “It’s been a while since we felt it this strong here in Bogotá.”
According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake struck at a shallow depth of nine kilometers. The tremors were felt as far away as Medellín and Cali, which are located close to the Pacific coast. Bogotá’s security department posted on X, confirming that emergency teams were conducting evaluations throughout the city to assess damage and offer help.
Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan emphasized that all disaster response agencies had been activated to address the situation. It is worth noting that central Colombia is known for its high seismic activity, having experienced a devastating 6.2 magnitude earthquake in 1999 that resulted in nearly 1,200 fatalities. Being situated on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ adds to the country’s tectonic instability, making such seismic events, while alarming, not entirely unexpected.
In summary, Colombia faced a significant seismic event with a 6.3 magnitude earthquake affecting central regions, primarily Paratebueno and Bogotá. Although structural damages were reported, no serious injuries occurred. This incident highlights Colombia’s vulnerability to seismic activity, located within the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, reminding residents of the potential dangers associated with living in a highly active seismic zone. Emergency services are mobilized to ensure safety and assist those impacted by the quake.
Original Source: www.france24.com
