A moderate earthquake struck Colombia early Wednesday, December 10, 2025, prompting a swift assessment of potential damage and activating emergency response protocols across several regions. The magnitude 5.8 quake, centered near Los Santos, Santander, served as a reminder of the country’s seismic activity and the importance of preparedness. as authorities reported no immediate casualties or significant infrastructure damage, residents are now being encouraged to utilize available early warning systems, including those offered by Google for both Android and iOS devices, to enhance safety during future events.
A moderate earthquake struck Colombia early Wednesday, December 10, 2025, shaking a large portion of the country. The tremor prompted a wave of concern among residents and a check for potential damage.
The quake registered a magnitude of 5.8, with an epicenter located in Los Santos, Santander, according to the Colombian Geological Service. It occurred at a depth of 150 kilometers.
As of Wednesday morning, emergency services in Bogotá reported no immediate reports of damage or injuries. Fire departments conducted sweeps of the city, utilizing the 123 emergency line, but found no situations requiring intervention.
Authorities in Cundinamarca similarly stated they had not received any reports of impacts in any of the region’s municipalities.
How to Download Google’s Earthquake Alert to Your Phone
Table of Contents
In light of seismic activity in Colombia, Google offers a free Earthquake Alert system designed to provide early warnings to users. The system, available in Colombia, aims to give people valuable seconds to prepare during an earthquake.
Android users will receive notifications when a seismic event is detected. Google states the system is intended to complement the work of emergency authorities in preventing fatalities during natural disasters.
“The Android earthquake alert system is a free service that detects earthquakes worldwide and can alert users of Android before the shaking starts in areas where the system is available,” the company said in a statement. This early warning system could prove crucial in minimizing risk during future events.
How Does It Work?
Google’s technology leverages seismographs, combined with data from accelerometers and sensors built into smartphones. When a phone’s accelerometer detects ground movement, it sends an alert to Google’s system.
Google’s servers then verify the alert using a network of nearby phones to determine if it is genuine. If confirmed, a notification is sent to devices in the affected area. The algorithm analyzes locations and magnitudes to avoid false alarms.
“We saw an opportunity to use Android to provide people with timely and useful information about earthquakes when they search on Google, and an alert a few seconds before shaking starts to help them and their loved ones stay safe,” Google explained.
How to Activate the Alert
- Go to your device’s ‘settings.’
- Select ‘location.’
- Click on ‘earthquake alerts.’
- Turn on the alarm system.
How to Activate the Seismic Alarm on iOS
iPhone and iPad users can activate a seismic alarm by following these steps:
- Open the Settings app. It’s the icon shaped like a gear on your home screen or in the Control Center.
- Find the Notifications option. It’s the icon shaped like a bell at the top of the settings menu.
- Scroll to the bottom and select Government Alerts. This is where you can configure notifications for emergencies like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires.
- Turn on AMBER Alerts and Emergency Alerts. These are the toggles that allow you to receive notifications about missing children or imminent threats to your safety. Make sure they are green or turned on.
