A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck central Colombia on Sunday at 8:08 am, sending tremors felt across much of the nation. The earthquake, which occurred 170 kilometers east of Bogotá at a shallow depth of nine kilometers, prompted widespread panic among residents, with many fleeing to the streets.
In Paratebueno, close to the epicenter, reports indicated several buildings had partially collapsed, including a significant damage to a local church. Residents were seen searching through the rubble of collapsed structures, though no serious injuries have been reported thus far. Authorities are assessing damages in surrounding villages.
In Bogotá, home to eight million people, the earthquake caused buildings to sway and triggered sirens, prompting thousands to evacuate their homes, often in a state of undress. Many sought safety in parks and open areas, with parents attempting to comfort their frightened children amid the chaos.
Carlos Alberto Ruiz, a Bogotá resident, described the experience as a “big scare,” while lawyer Francisco Gonzalez noted the rarity of feeling such a strong tremor in the capital. Following the quake, the city’s security department confirmed that emergency services were activated to assess the situation and provide assistance where needed.
This seismic event serves as a reminder of Colombia’s location within a highly active seismic zone, having previously experienced a devastating earthquake in 1999 that resulted in nearly 1,200 fatalities. The country continues to grapple with the potential for seismic activity, prompting authorities to remain vigilant.
While the immediate impact of the earthquake is concerning, the absence of serious injuries brings a measure of relief as communities come together to assess and recover from the event.