At least 111 people have been killed and dozens more injured after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, according to local officials. The earthquake, which occurred at 07:34 on Monday, was felt across the country and in neighbouring Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. Buildings have collapsed, and rescue efforts are underway to free those trapped beneath the rubble. This tragic event comes just two months after twin quakes devastated parts of Venezuela, resulting in over 6,100 fatalities.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located 107km (66 miles) below San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The shaking was severe enough to cause damage to unreinforced masonry buildings, affecting 1.5 million people. The USGS also noted that the earthquake originated at an intermediate depth, within the slab of old seafloor sinking beneath the South American continent.
The impact of the earthquake is evident in the widespread disruption and damage. In Cali, the mayor, Alejandro Eder, reported 32 confirmed building collapses, with emergency crews rescuing 38 people, some of whom tragically died. The city's search and rescue teams, well-trained and experienced in the recent Venezuela quake relief effort, are working tirelessly to assist those in need.
The vice-president of Colombia, José Manuel Restrepo Abondano, expressed the government's commitment to supporting affected communities. He acknowledged the assistance from international allies and vowed to provide aid to every family in need. The European Union, through its Copernicus satellite system, is aiding rescue operations and is prepared to offer further support.
The earthquake's impact was felt by tourists as well. Dan Cutler, a UK visitor in Colombia, described the experience as unprecedented, with his hotel showing surface cracks and paint peeling off the walls. The damage to buildings and infrastructure is evident in videos and images from Pereira, Manizales, and other affected cities, with buildings collapsing and landmark sites clouded in debris.
European leaders have pledged their support, with French President Emmanuel Macron offering condolences and assistance. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed solidarity and offered aid. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended support, emphasizing the global community's willingness to help.
The scale of the damage and casualties is still being assessed, with the death toll rising to at least 69 according to the AFP news agency, and 77 according to Reuters. The police director in Pereira reported 47 deaths and over 60 collapsed buildings. The governor of Chocó, Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi, confirmed nine deaths and 80 injuries in her region. The true extent of the damage is yet to be fully determined, as some areas remain inaccessible due to road damage.
The earthquake has caused significant disruption, with five airports in Colombia closed to the public for assessment and repair. The US government is monitoring the situation and stands ready to support Colombia. The earthquake is the strongest to hit the country in over a decade, according to the Colombian Geological Service, and the US Geological Survey (USGS) has emphasized the potential for damage due to the nature of the fault.
The aftermath of the earthquake has sparked a wave of support and solidarity from regional leaders and international allies. As the recovery efforts continue, the world extends a helping hand to Colombia, offering aid and assistance to those affected by this devastating natural disaster.
