Colombian earthquake: Peruvian in Medellín recounts surviving magnitude 7.4 tremor from 17th floor

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake jolted Colombia on Monday morning, August 10, originating from the Chocó department. The seismic event occurred around 7:34 a.m. and its effects were felt in numerous cities, including Medellín, Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Bogotá. Emergency protocols were swiftly initiated by authorities as they began assessing the damage caused by the strong tremor.

In Medellín, the earthquake triggered moments of anxiety for residents in tall buildings. Peruvian national Eduardo Silva, who was on the 17th floor of a building, recounted his experience. He described how the intensity of the shaking caused buildings to tremble, leading to widespread concern among inhabitants. Silva noted that some children began to cry due to the quake's force, and many people chose to stay outdoors, fearing aftershocks.

After finding a secure spot within his building, Silva decided to evacuate from the 17th floor using the emergency stairs. Upon reaching the exterior, he observed many residents remaining outside, worried about potential aftershocks. The building's alarms remained active, and emergency systems had been functioning since the earthquake's onset.

More severe damage was reported in other parts of the country. In Cali, damaged buildings were observed, and areas closer to the epicenter saw destroyed homes and structures with visible cracks. Broken windows and damage to various properties were also reported. The airport in Pereira was evacuated after internal structures, including ceilings, sustained damage. The earthquake also caused elevator disruptions in several buildings, requiring rescue efforts for trapped individuals.

Reports indicated that some three- and four-story buildings had collapsed in certain sectors. As emergency operations progressed, authorities were engaged in search and rescue efforts. Subsequent reports confirmed fatalities and injuries in the most affected zones, with the casualty count being updated throughout the day.

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It was very intense.