A powerful earthquake struck Colombia’s Chocó province, causing structural damage and injuries in the capital city of Quibdó, according to provincial governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curiová. Seismological data shows a discrepancy between major reporting agencies, with measurements ranging from 6.6 to 7.4 on the Richter scale.
Magnitude and Epicenter Discrepancies in Colombia
The earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located near the town of San José del Palmar, according to provincial officials. However, reporting agencies differ on the exact magnitude of the tremor. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale. In contrast, Bloomberg and the Czech news outlet iDNES.cz reported the magnitude at 7.4. Scientists are currently reviewing seismic data to reconcile these figures.
Impact and Damage in Quibdó
While the epicenter was centered near San José del Palmar, the primary structural impacts and injuries occurred further away in Quibdó, the capital of Chocó province. Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curiová reported that buildings sustained significant damage in the city alongside multiple injuries. Local authorities immediately initiated damage assessments following the shaking, bracing for potential aftershocks that threaten already compromised structures.
Emergency Response and Monitoring
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) stated it established direct communication channels with local authorities across the affected region to verify the full scope of potential damages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the epicenter of the Colombia earthquake?
According to provincial officials, the epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó province.
What was the magnitude of the tremor?
Measurements vary by reporting agency. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) recorded the quake at 6.6 on the Richter scale, while Bloomberg and iDNES.cz reported it at 7.4.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes. According to Chocó Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curiová, the earthquake caused injuries and significant building damage in the provincial capital of Quibdó.
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