A strong 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck central Colombia early Sunday morning, causing alarm but no immediate reports of casualties, according to local authorities.
The tremor occurred at 8:08 a.m. local time, about 17 kilometers northeast of Paratebueno—a town located roughly 116 miles southeast of the capital, Bogotá. The quake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, making it more likely to be felt on the surface.
Shortly after the main quake, the Colombian Geological Service recorded several aftershocks. These ranged in magnitude from 4.0 to 4.6 and occurred in the same region. While the ground shook in nearby towns and cities, there have been no initial signs of damage or injury.
Emergency teams and officials from the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management said they are actively assessing the situation in several municipalities. They are working to ensure that rural and urban communities are safe. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In Bogotá, the impact of the tremor was felt strongly. Some residents and office workers left their buildings as a precaution. Videos and images shared on social media show groups of people gathering outdoors, waiting for updates and safety instructions. Despite the scare, emergency services have not received any reports of collapsed buildings or infrastructure damage.
Rural communities closer to the epicenter reported light shaking but have not indicated any destruction. Footage from villages and towns around Paratebueno shows calm streets and daily life returning to normal quickly after the incident.
Colombia is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly active seismic zone where tectonic plates frequently shift. This geographic location makes the country prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Seismic activity is monitored closely by local and international agencies to ensure swift response and public safety.
Experts advise people living in quake-prone areas to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. These include having emergency kits, identifying safe spots at home, and knowing how to respond when an earthquake hits. While this latest event caused no reported harm, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness.
Local authorities are urging residents to remain calm but cautious as aftershocks may continue in the coming days. Schools, businesses, and emergency responders are on standby in case further action is needed.
As of now, power, water, and transportation services remain functional in the affected areas. The government continues to monitor the situation and will issue alerts if conditions change.
The 6.3 magnitude central Colombia earthquake did not cause casualties or serious damage, but it served as a wake-up call for many in the region. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to prioritize safety in the days ahead.
