Colombia: Emergency crews continue to respond after magnitude-6.3 earthquake occurs east of Bogota Aug. 17 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are continuing to respond to a magnitude-6.3 earthquake that occurred in central Colombia to the east of Bogota at around 12:04 Aug. 17. The epicenter was about 16 km (10 miles) north of Cumaral. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles).

Although authorities did not immediately report any serious injuries or deaths in connection with the earthquake, consequent damage has been reported in multiple areas. Initial reports indicate that the temblor damaged some buildings in the Guayabetal, Quetame, and Ubala municipalities of Cundinamarca Department, as well as traffic lights and the National Congress building in Bogota. The earthquake also notably destroyed at least four houses in El Calvario, Meta Department, located near the epicenter, and prompted officials to evacuate residents from the area. Additionally, authorities have temporarily closed sections of the Via al Llano highway, connecting Bogota with Villavicencio in Meta Department, due to landslides blocking parts of the thoroughfare.

Officials have asked people in some affected areas to refrain from returning to their homes due to aftershocks. Some aftershocks are likely to produce significant shaking. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the epicenter of the magnitude-6.3 earthquake. Lingering transport disruptions are likely in earthquake-affected areas due to landslides.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to landslides.