Powerful 6.3 Magnitude Quake Shakes Central Colombia, Damaging Buildings

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit central Colombia, shaking buildings and alarming residents. The quake struck near Paratebueno, causing some damage but no serious injuries. Bogota felt the tremors acutely, leading to mass evacuations. Emergency services are on high alert as aftershocks follow.

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 struck central Colombia on Sunday, causing buildings to sway and alarming residents. The earthquake, which occurred at 8:08 AM, was centered approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) east of Bogota, the country’s capital, and was felt widely across the region. Reports indicate that several structures were significantly damaged in the town of Paratebueno, near the epicenter, including a church with one wall severely affected. Nearby residents were observed sifting through debris from collapsed buildings, although fortunately, there have been no serious injuries reported.

In Bogota, a city nestled in the Andes with a population of around eight million, the quake triggered sirens and led people to flee into the streets, many still in their pajamas. The tremors lasted close to a minute, causing furniture to shake and tall buildings to sway visibly. Thousands sought refuge in parks and open areas, while parents comforted frightened children and couples embraced amid the chaos. The initial shock of the quake was followed by several aftershocks, contributing to the anxiety of returning indoors.

Emergency workers in Bogota wasted no time conducting assessments for damage across the city. Mayor Carlos Fernando Galan confirmed that all disaster response teams had been activated in light of the quake. Meanwhile, the U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake struck at a depth of nine kilometers (about 5.5 miles) near Paratebueno. The aftereffects of the quake were felt as far as Medellin and Cali, located towards the Pacific coastline, indicating the tremor’s significant reach.

Central Colombia is in an area known for high seismic activity. A tragic 6.2 magnitude quake back in 1999 resulted in the loss of nearly 1,200 lives. The region is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plates converge, leading to frequent earthquakes. As authorities continue to investigate the extent of the damage and provide assistance, many Colombians are reminded of the risks posed by living in such an earthquake-prone area.

In summary, Sunday’s 6.3 magnitude earthquake in central Colombia resulted in significant alarm and some structural damage, particularly in areas near the epicenter. While there were no serious injuries reported, concerns remain regarding aftershocks and the safety of buildings in a region historically affected by seismic activity. As emergency services respond, the experience serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by earthquakes in the area.

Original Source: www.france24.com