A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and leaving dozens of people dead. The earthquake hit at around 7:34 a.m. local time, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, according to reports.
The strong tremor was felt across several parts of the country, including Pereira, Cali, Manizales and Quibdó. Buildings collapsed in several affected areas, trapping people beneath rubble and prompting emergency crews to launch urgent search-and-rescue operations. Hospitals were also placed under severe pressure as large numbers of injured residents arrived for treatment.
At least 79 people had been reported dead in the latest accounts, although authorities warned that the number could rise as rescuers reach damaged buildings and isolated communities. Children were among those reported killed, while many others suffered injuries.
Pereira was among the hardest-hit cities, with dozens of structures reportedly collapsing. Infrastructure was also damaged, including airports, creating additional challenges for emergency response teams. Residents were advised to remain outdoors because of the possibility of further aftershocks.
The earthquake was followed by additional tremors, increasing fears that already weakened structures could collapse. Rescue workers, police, firefighters and medical teams have been deployed to affected areas as authorities assess the full scale of the disaster.
Colombia’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella, called for an emergency response and pledged government assistance to victims and affected communities. International support has also been offered as Colombia begins dealing with the extensive destruction.
Officials continue to search collapsed buildings for survivors while assessing damage to homes, roads and public infrastructure. The final death toll is expected to remain uncertain until rescue operations are completed.
