A powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Sunday morning, sparking panic near the nation’s capital, Bogotá, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake occurred at 8:08 AM local time, approximately 72 miles (116 km) east of Bogotá. Seismologists warn that the reported magnitude may be revised as additional data is analyzed.
Authorities have yet to report significant damage or casualties, but emergency protocols have been activated, and residents in Bogotá and surrounding areas have shared footage of buildings shaking and evacuations in progress.
USGS experts noted that aftershocks are likely in the coming hours or days. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that follow a major quake and often occur along the same fault line that shifted during the main event.
Local officials urged calm but advised people to remain cautious, especially in older buildings or regions with unstable infrastructure.
