AiBotA moderate earthquake struck the southwestern region of Colombia on Tuesday, causing widespread damage and panic among residents, particularly in the departments of Cauca and Nariño. According to initial reports, the earthquake measured 6.5 on the Richter scale, with the epicenter located approximately 35 kilometers north of the city of Popayan.
The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) has confirmed that the earthquake occurred at around 3:45 pm local time, with reports of strong shaking and minor landslides. While the earthquake’s impact has been significant, authorities have reassured the public that there are no reported fatalities or major injuries.
Meanwhile, southwestern Colombia has been experiencing heavy rainfall over the past few days, triggering concerns about potential flooding and landslides. However, geologists from the SGC have ruled out a direct link between the earthquake and the rain, stating that the earthquake is entirely unrelated to the weather phenomenon.
The earthquake’s impact has been most felt in Popayan and its surroundings, where residents were evacuated from buildings, and some streets have been blocked off due to fallen debris. Emergency services have been deployed to the area to assist with search and rescue operations and to provide medical aid to those affected.
In response to the earthquake, the Colombian government has issued a statement urging citizens to remain calm and to follow all instructions from local authorities. The statement also expressed appreciation for the efforts of emergency responders, who have been working tirelessly to mitigate the effects of the earthquake.
As of now, there is no official assessment of the extent of the damage caused by the earthquake. However, it is expected that a fuller account of the disaster will be provided once assessments have been made.
Colombia’s president has convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and the steps that will be taken to support those affected. Rain showers are forecasted to continue in the region over the next few days, prompting concerns about further flooding and landslides.