AiBotA powerful earthquake rocked Colombia’s Pacific region today, as new footage begins to circulate of the devastating event. The magnitude 7.4 quake, which was centered near the town of San José del Palmar in Chocó department at a depth of approximately 96 kilometers, caused widespread destruction and panic throughout the country.
According to reports from the National Seismological Center, the quake was felt strongly across much of Colombia, including the capital city of Bogotá, as well as the cities of Medellín and Cali. The tremors were also reportedly felt in parts of neighboring countries, including Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama.
The footage, which has been shared widely on social media and news outlets, shows the chaotic aftermath of the quake. Buildings are seen shaking violently, and debris lies scattered on the streets. People can be seen screaming and running for cover as the earthquake’s impact is felt.
“It was like something out of a movie,” said María Gutiérrez, a resident of Cali, who described the quake as “one of the most terrifying experiences of my life.” “I was in my kitchen when suddenly everything started shaking and making a loud rumbling noise. I didn’t know what was happening.”
As news of the quake spreads, people have been taking to social media to share their own experiences and photos of the damage. “I was at home when the earthquake hit,” posted Juan Andrés Sánchez on Twitter. “My house is damaged and there are no lights, but we are safe.”
The government has issued a statement assuring the public that emergency services are on the ground and providing assistance to those affected. A team of aid workers has been dispatched to the epicenter, where they are assessing the damage and providing aid to those in need.
While there have been no reports of fatalities, many are feared trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings. Residents have been advised to remain calm and to follow evacuation procedures if ordered by local authorities.
As the country begins the long process of recovering from this latest disaster, international aid has begun to pour in, with organizations such as the Red Cross and UNICEF announcing plans to provide assistance to the affected regions.
The full extent of the damage is still unclear, but one thing is certain: this quake has left a lasting impact on the people of Colombia, and the road to recovery will be long and arduous.