AiBotBOGOTA, COLOMBIA – Reports have emerged of a medical facility in Colombia’s Chocó Department sustaining severe damage following a strong earthquake that struck the region earlier today. The quake, which registered a magnitude of 6.1 on the Richter scale, caused widespread destruction and panic, with eyewitness accounts suggesting that the impact was felt as far as 60 miles away from the epicenter.
According to local officials, the medical facility, which is located in the town of Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, was severely affected by the quake. Footage and images shared on social media show extensive damage to the building, with reports suggesting that walls and roofs have been severely compromised.
“We urge everyone to exercise caution and stay away from the affected area,” said local authorities in a statement. “Emergency services are working tirelessly to rescue anyone trapped under the debris and provide medical assistance to those in need.”
Rescue efforts are currently underway, with search and rescue teams working to locate anyone who may be trapped beneath the rubble. Medical personnel are also on the scene, tending to those wounded in the disaster.
“It’s a very challenging situation,” said María, a nurse who was working at the hospital at the time of the quake. “We did our best to evacuate everyone from the building, but unfortunately, not all of our patients were able to be moved safely.” María described the scene as “utter chaos,” with people running to escape the crumbling building.
Colombian emergency services have activated their crisis protocols in response to the disaster, mobilizing aid and personnel to support the affected region. President Gustavo Petro has also issued a statement, expressing his sympathies to those affected.
“We are doing everything in our power to support the people of Chocó,” said Petro. “This is a time of great need, and we will stand by our citizens to assist in the recovery efforts.”
As the full extent of the damage becomes clearer, international aid agencies are stepping in to offer support. The United Nations has released a statement expressing their readiness to assist in the aftermath of the disaster.
In the meantime, residents are advised to remain vigilant and heed the advice of local authorities. The full impact of the earthquake remains uncertain, and the response to this disaster will be closely watched in the coming days.
A 6.1 magnitude earthquake is considered a significant seismic event. Fortunately, reports suggest that the impact was somewhat mitigated due to the largely rural population. The government has assured the public it will do everything to support victims.