Powerful 6.5 Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Central Colombia, Residents Evacuate Buildings

 

Residents in central Colombia gather outside buildings after a powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake shakes the region. Emergency crews inspect damage as aftershocks remain a concern.

A powerful 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck central Colombia on Sunday, sending tremors across several cities and prompting residents to flee buildings in fear. The quake occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, with its epicenter near the town of Villamaría in the department of Caldas, according to the Colombian Geological Service.

Shaking was felt across a wide area, including the capital Bogotá, where buildings swayed and emergency protocols were activated. In Medellín and Manizales, residents poured into the streets as sirens blared and emergency services responded. Authorities reported temporary power outages and communication disruptions in some regions, though no immediate reports of fatalities were confirmed.

Emergency teams were dispatched to assess damage and check for potential injuries, particularly in remote and mountainous areas near the epicenter. Several homes and buildings suffered structural cracks, and schools and public offices were temporarily closed as a precaution.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro urged calm and stated that the government was closely monitoring the situation. He assured citizens that national response teams were fully mobilized and ready to provide assistance wherever needed.

Seismologists noted that Colombia is situated in a seismically active zone, making such events relatively common. However, earthquakes of this strength can cause serious damage depending on their depth and proximity to populated areas.

As aftershocks remain a possibility, local authorities have advised residents to stay alert, follow official instructions, and avoid damaged structures. The situation is still developing as assessments continue.