Deadly 7.4 Quake Rocks Colombia: Buildings Collapse, Hundreds Injured and 132 Lives Lost

Colombia: The strong earthquake that occurred in Colombia on Monday spread panic in the entire area. According to initial reports, 132 people have died in this accident and about 570 people are said to be injured. The tremors were so strong that people ran out of homes and offices and came to the streets.

Where was the epicentre of the earthquake and at what depth?

Intensity: 7.4 according to EMSC, while the Colombian Geological Service said 6.7

Depth: 115 KM according to EMSC, 79 KM according to Colombia's Disaster Management Agency

Center: Around San Jose del Palmar, about 400 KM west of the capital Bogota

There are different figures regarding intensity and depth. Because all agencies release initial data immediately after an earthquake. Later it is modified on the basis of recordings.

Where were the tremors felt?

The tremors felt were not limited to Colombia only. Apart from the capital Bogota, tremors were also felt in parts of neighbouring Venezuela and Ecuador.

Maximum damage in Quibdo: According to Choco province governor Nubia Carolina, many people have been injured and many buildings have been damaged in the province's capital Quibdo. The administration is still assessing the damage and relief work is going on.

Is Colombia prone to earthquakes?

Colombia lies near several tectonic plates and fault lines. That's why earthquakes keep happening here again and again. 

According to the Colombian Geological Service, more than 100 destructive earthquakes have been recorded so far in the country. The Andean region, the Eastern Cordillera and the Pacific coast are considered to be the areas most at risk. The 8.0 magnitude earthquake that struck near Tumaco in 1979 was the country's most destructive earthquake. Monday's 7.4 quake is also one of the most powerful earthquakes in recent decades.

What's next?

There is always a risk of aftershocks after a major earthquake. Agencies are continuously monitoring. The priority of the administration right now is treatment of the injured, delivery of relief material and investigation of damaged buildings. People have been told to stay away from damaged buildings.

Were Tremors felt in Japan too?

Meanwhile, an earthquake of 7.1 magnitude occurred in the Kumamoto area of  Kyushu island of Japan. According to JMA, it was at a depth of 10 KM and its impact was felt in western parts of Kumamoto. Currently, relief work is going on in Colombia.