6.6 magnitude earthquake in Colombia: Injuries reported, buildings damaged

A powerful 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia's Choco region on the Pacific coast, causing injuries and significant damage to buildings in the capital city of Quibdo.

The tremor, which occurred at 7:34 a.m. local time at a depth of 79 kilometers, was felt across a wide area, including the capital Bogota and extending to the Venezuelan border. The epicenter was located near San Jose del Palmar in the Choco region.

Choco Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi confirmed that several people were injured in Quibdo and that numerous buildings sustained serious damage. She expressed concern about aftershocks and stated that damage assessment teams had begun their work. Officials are in contact with local authorities to determine the full extent of the damage.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake's magnitude as 7.4, with an epicenter also near San Jose del Palmar but at a depth of 107 kilometers. While damage was reported in several cities in the western part of the country, Bogota Mayor Carlos Galán reported no injuries and no significant structural damage in the capital, though some buildings experienced cracks.

Authorities are continuing their assessments, and no official statement has been made regarding casualties. The focus remains on determining the scale of the destruction and ensuring the safety of affected residents.