Strong Earthquake Hits Colombian Capital Bogota, Prompting Evacuations
BOGOTA, Aug 17 (Reuters) – The Colombian capital of Bogota was struck by a powerful earthquake on Thursday, measuring a magnitude of 6.3 according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremors caused panic among residents, leading them to quickly evacuate their homes, offices, and restaurants.
Following the initial quake, aftershocks rattled the city, causing more fear and chaos. Colombia’s national geological service reported a second quake with a magnitude of 5.6 and a subsequent aftershock measuring 4.8.
Adrian Alarcon, who works near the busy Park 93 district, described the intensity of the earthquake, saying, “It was strong and lasted a long time.” He added, “It makes me feel fragile. Life changes in a second. You can’t do anything, just run for your life.”
The civil defense agency in Colombia confirmed that residents in the entire municipality of Calvario, located southeast of Bogota, were evacuated. Windows in the area were damaged as a result of the quakes. Meanwhile, in the nearby town of Villavicencio, the agency reported a landslide and is currently assessing the extent of the impact.
The earthquake serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and devastating power of nature. Residents are urged to remain cautious and follow any further safety instructions provided by local authorities.
Reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb and Oliver Griffin; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by David Alire Garcia and Alistair Bell