On Thursday, August 17, a powerful 6.1 magnitude earthquake hit Colombia, sending aftershocks throughout several parts of the country including Bogota.
According to the Colombian Geological Service, the earthquake had its epicenter in El Calvario, department of Meta, with a depth of 30 kilometers. Minutes later, an aftershock of 5.6 with epicenter in Villavicencio was felt and later it was reported that a third, milder aftershock of 4.2 magnitude with epicenter in Acacias, Meta, was felt at 12:40 pm.
In Bogota, Mayor Claudia López assured that so far there are only indications of people trapped in elevators and minor events. She also announced the installation of a district PMU. In the municipality of El Calvario, 3 people were taken to the health center after the earthquake, while in Gachalá, Cundinamarca, the church cross and an antenna at the fire station were reportedly damaged.
While authorities reported no major damage, the mayor of Bogota announced three new events with minor intensity in different parts of the city, as well as failures in some traffic lights.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in Colombia, today’s events are just another reminder of the risk and need to be prepared. Although the Colombian Geological Service reported that there is no risk of an imminent tsunami, people are urged to remain vigilant and take all necessary safety precautions.
With information from El Tiempo
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