Major Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia, Tremors Felt Widely
6.6 Magnitude Quake Near San Jose del Palmar Causes Damage in Quibdo; Bogota Reports No Major Impact
Sarah Connor
A 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Pacific province of Choco in western Colombia today.
Multiple injuries and significant structural damage to buildings have been reported in Quibdo, the province's capital. Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi confirmed, "We have just experienced a major earthquake in the department of Choco."
We have just experienced a major earthquake in the department of Choco.
Cordoba-Curi expressed concern about aftershocks, stating, "Although the epicenter was near San Jose del Palmar, there are injuries and significant damage to buildings in the capital, Quibdo." A damage assessment is underway, with an official report expected shortly.
Footage from Manizales reportedly showed a collapsed building, with people expressing concern about those trapped inside. The Mayor of Cali claims at least 20 buildings had collapsed following the earthquake in that city.
Alejandro Eder claimed people were trapped inside at least 19 collapsed buildings in Cali. In contrast, Carlos Galan, Mayor of Bogota, stated there was no major damage in the capital.
There was no major damage in the capital.
Flights from six Colombian airports were suspended following the quake. Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) is liaising with regional authorities to assess the full impact of the event.
No tsunami warning was issued by the US tsunami warning system. Colombia's president, Abelardo De La Espriella, announced he would travel to Pereira.