The earthquakes In Colombia they are very common due to seismic activity in the region, it is essential to stay informed, especially in areas such as Cundinamarca, Cali, Bogotá and Medellín, although most of these movements do not represent a significant threat. Therefore, the Colombian Geological Service (SGC) performs continuous monitoring of these events. We recommend that you review the report provided by this entity to obtain additional information about the prevention, causes and repercussions of earthquakes.
Reports from the Colombian Geological Service
Recommendations in case of an earthquake
- Stay calm: Staying calm is essential. Try to remain calm and help calm those around you, especially if children or elderly people are present.
- Protect yourself: Find a safe place, such as under a sturdy table or door frame, and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid being near windows, mirrors and objects that could fall.
- Stay in place: If you are inside a building, do not go outside during the earthquake. Most injuries occur when people try to get out during an earthquake.
- Turn off gas and electricity: If possible, turn off gas and electricity to prevent fires and explosions. Learn how to do it in advance.
- Keep your distance from heavy objects: Stay away from shelves, tall furniture and other heavy objects that could fall during the earthquake.
- Stay in the fetal position if you are in bed: If you are in bed when the earthquake starts, surround yourself with pillows and maintain the fetal position to protect your head and neck.
- Listen through a radio: After the earthquake, listen to emergency updates through a battery-powered radio or mobile device, as there could be aftershocks or other threats.
- Have an emergency kit: Be prepared with an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid kit, important documents and other essential items you may need in the event of an earthquake.
Remember that preparation is key. Knowing the safety measures and having an emergency plan in your home, work and places you frequent can make a difference in your safety during an earthquake.
Why do so many earthquakes occur in Colombia?
Three dominant tectonic plates, the Nazca Plate, the Caribbean Plate and the South American Plate, cause seismic activity in Colombia. The Nazca Plate slides under the South American Plate on the western side of Colombia, and together with local geological faults and volcanoes, intensifies earthquakes in the area. Although many of these movements are not strong, the continued exposure of the Colombian territory to this activity highlights the need for adequate preparation and education regarding risk management.
Colombia’s geological location in a tectonically active region makes it prone to earthquakes, which underlines the need for seismic surveillance and planning safety measures to protect the population against possible seismic events.