A magnitude 4.3 earthquake struck Istmina, Chocó, on Saturday, September 19, at 6:20 p.m. local time, according to a preliminary bulletin from the Servicio Geológico Colombiano (SGC). The tremor occurred during a day that had already seen earlier seismic activity in the country’s western region, including a 4.0 magnitude event at 5:28 p.m. near Istmina at a depth of 44 kilometers, which some residents in Cali and Pereira reported feeling.
Following the 6:20 p.m. tremor, the SGC asked citizens who felt the movement to submit reports through its Sismo Sentido platform. The agency uses these submissions to evaluate earthquake intensity across different zones, noting that magnitude measures the physical size of a seismic event while intensity varies by location and recorded effects. This ongoing monitoring comes in the wake of a major 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck San José del Palmar, Chocó, on August 10, causing widespread infrastructural damage and fatalities reported by Abelardo De La Espriella through the Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres.
Did You Know? The Servicio Geológico Colombiano distinguishes between magnitude and intensity: magnitude measures the actual size of the earthquake, whereas intensity reflects how severely the movement is felt and the specific effects produced in different geographic locations.
Emergency Protocols and Public Safety Recommendations
When a significant earthquake strikes, the SGC advises individuals to remain calm and practice the drop, cover, and hold on technique. People should seek safe shelter, protect their head and neck, and stay away from glass, windows, and unanchored objects. Those inside buildings should remain indoors until the shaking stops and avoid elevators, then evacuate via designated routes without pushing or running if structural checks warrant it.
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In public spaces, pedestrians should distance themselves from building facades, utility poles, electrical cables, and trees. Drivers must slow down and pull over to safe areas away from bridges, tunnels, and vulnerable structures. Authorities also emphasize that anyone encountering injured individuals should contact emergency responders immediately rather than moving severely hurt persons unless an immediate threat makes it necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the magnitude of the earthquake on September 19?
According to the SGC preliminary bulletin, the earthquake reached a magnitude of 4.3.
Where was the epicenter of the late afternoon tremor?
The epicenter was located in Istmina, Chocó.
How can citizens assist earthquake monitoring efforts?
Residents can report their experience through the Sismo Sentido platform to help the SGC evaluate local intensity levels.
Did you feel the tremor in your region, and how do local communities prepare for ongoing seismic activity?
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