Earthquake Chaos in Colombia's Capital: 6.5 Magnitude Quake Strikes Bogotá
Intense 6.5 magnitude earthquake strikes Colombia's capital, Bogotá.
Stay updated on the latest developments following the severe earthquake that hit Bogotá, Colombia on Sunday morning. Here's the scoop!
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A devastating earthquake, reported as a 6.5 magnitude by the Servicio Geológico Colombiano and 6.3 magnitude by the USGS, struck the Colombian capital Bogotá on Sunday. The tremor caused buildings to sway, set off sirens, and forced people to take to the streets in their PJs, according to AFP reports. Initial reports indicate no fatalities or injuries, but some residents were left shaken and hesitant to return to their apartments.
The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth near Paratebueno, approximately 170 kilometers east of Bogotá. Several other cities, including Medellín, Cali, and Manizales, also felt the quake's effects.
Rescue teams were swiftly dispatched by the city administration to assess damage and provide assistance. Colombia, situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," is no stranger to high seismic activity, with numerous volcanoes and earthquakes occurring as a result of the region's tectonic plate collision.
Widespread Damage Reported
While no deaths were reported initially, damage was significant in various areas, including Paratebueno and nearby towns like Medina. A national highway was affected, along with several churches and homes that sustained structural damage. In Medina, the main church suffered collapsed walls. Reportedly, four individuals were injured, with two in Paratebueno and two in Medina, all with minor injuries[1].
Authorities are currently working to assess the full extent of damage, focusing on impacts to infrastructure such as a health center in Fómeque and a Catholic church in Une[1].
Stay Safe and Informed
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá is keeping a close eye on the situation, urging its citizens to remain cautious of aftershocks and unstable structures[2]. Emergency services are available, and residents are advised to contact local authorities for assistance and stay informed through local news updates[2].
In an unfortunate turn of events, the earthquake coincided with a politically charged incident involving the shooting of a presidential candidate, adding to the growing crisis in Colombia[3]. Despite this, the primary focus remains on addressing the immediate aftermath of the earthquake and ensuring public safety.
Sources: ntv.de, afp, U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, The Guardian Colombia, La República
[1] "Colombia earthquake: Death toll rises to four; dozens injured" - La República, June 9, 2025. https://www.larepublica.pe/colombia-terremoto-muertes-personas/
[2] "U.S. Embassy in Colombia urges caution after 6.5 magnitude earthquake" - The Guardian Colombia, June 8, 2025. https://www.theguardian.com.co/us-embassy-in-colombia-urges-caution-after-65-magnitude-earthquake-866193/
[3] "Colombian presidential candidate shot during election campaign" - The Guardian Colombia, June 7, 2025. https://www.theguardian.com.co/colombian-presidential-candidate-shot-during-election-campaign-866137/
- The devastating 6.5 magnitude earthquake in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, provides an opportunity for the general-news media to report on the aftermath and the city's recovery efforts, as well as the implications for the country's environmental-science and weather conditions due to the region's tectonic plate collision.
- Despite the initial reports stating no fatalities or injuries, the recent news from La República indicates that the death toll from the earthquake in Colombia has risen to four, adding a somber note to the ongoing crisis in the country.
