Die Zahl der Todesopfer des Erdbebens stieg auf mindestens 111

The death toll from the earthquake in Colombia has risen to at least 111, according to reports from local authorities. The tremor, which struck the country today, was initially measured at magnitude 6.6 by the Colombian Geological Service (SGC) and later revised to 7.4 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter of the quake was located in the town of San Jose del Palmar, in the northern department of Choco. The shaking was felt across much of the country, including the capital, Bogota, and neighboring nations such as Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela. In June, a previous devastating earthquake had claimed over 6,100 lives in Venezuela. Rescue operations continue in affected areas, with many people still trapped under rubble. Local officials have warned that the number of casualties could rise further as search teams work through the debris. In the city of Pereira, located in the central department of Risaralda, at least 40 people were confirmed dead. Two additional fatalities were reported in nearby Manizales, approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Pereira. In the valley of Valle del Cauca, where the city of Cali is situated, at least 20 buildings collapsed, resulting in 27 confirmed deaths. Mayor Salazar of Pereira described the situation as critical, emphasizing the severity of the damage. In Manizales, Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas reported that numerous structures were damaged, some partially or completely destroyed. In Cali, Mayor Alejandra Eder noted that more than 20 buildings were ruined, with people still trapped beneath the wreckage. Damage assessments are ongoing, and the extent of the destruction remains unclear. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office last week, has called an emergency meeting of the crisis committee. He announced his intention to travel to Bogota to oversee efforts to address the dire conditions facing the nation. His message on social media underscored the urgency of the response, stating he would focus on resolving the exceptional circumstances the country is currently experiencing. The USGS has issued warnings that the number of casualties could be substantial due to the large population exposed to the powerful quake. According to CNN, more than two million people were affected by the tremor. Significant economic losses have been recorded, with major damage reported at six airports nationwide, leading to the cancellation of all flights. In addition to structural damage, the earthquake has caused widespread disruption, affecting infrastructure and daily life. Rescue workers are working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide aid to those displaced. Emergency services remain stretched thin, with resources being diverted to the hardest-hit regions. The government has pledged support, though the scale of the challenge ahead remains daunting. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on saving lives and stabilizing the region.