A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck western Colombia early Monday, causing widespread damage and resulting in over 111 confirmed deaths, with the number expected to rise further. The tremor was felt across multiple cities throughout the country, with its epicenter located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, approximately 107 kilometers beneath the surface. Initial reports indicated severe structural damage, including collapsed buildings, particularly in the city of Cali, where at least 20 structures were reported to have fallen. Local authorities warned of potential aftershocks and urged residents to remain cautious. The death toll has continued to climb, with the president of Colombia, Abelardo de la Espriella, confirming 111 fatalities. Earlier estimates had placed the number of dead at around 82, highlighting the rapidly evolving situation. In his address to the nation, the president emphasized the government’s commitment to rescue operations and providing aid to affected communities. He noted that at least 87 individuals were injured, and 61 buildings, including 37 residential structures, had collapsed. “Our priority is rescuing those trapped under rubble,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of ongoing search efforts. In the department of Valle del Cauca, at least three children were among the 27 confirmed victims, according to local officials. Meanwhile, the death count in Chocó increased to nine, up from earlier figures of four. These numbers reflect the severity of the disaster, which has impacted several regions, including Pereira, where at least 47 people lost their lives. Local police chief Óscar Leonel Ochoa reported that over 60 buildings had collapsed in Pereira, with some estimates suggesting the figure could exceed 70. Search teams continue to comb through debris, seeking survivors still buried beneath the rubble. Notable casualties were also recorded in other areas, such as Manizales, where the collapse of a cathedral's dome caused significant concern. Residents described scenes of chaos, with buildings collapsing and people fleeing in fear. In Buenaventura, a major Pacific port city, a building collapse resulted in one fatality, while in Cali, more than 20 structures were reported to have been destroyed. The city’s mayor, Alejandro Eder, confirmed that over 25 buildings had collapsed and that at least 12 critical points required immediate attention. Two individuals were rescued alive, including an elderly woman and a child, though many others remained missing. In response to the crisis, the Colombian government declared a national disaster, signaling the scale of the catastrophe. This declaration allows for coordinated emergency responses and resource allocation to support relief efforts. Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba of Chocó reported that there were injuries and extensive damage to buildings in the capital, Quibdó, and warned of possible additional earthquakes. She noted that while the epicenter was in San José del Palmar, the effects were felt strongly in Quibdó and surrounding areas, prompting assessments of the extent of the damage. International figures, including pop star Shakira, expressed solidarity with the affected population. On social media, she conveyed her condolences and offered her support, emphasizing the importance of unity during times of crisis. Her message resonated widely, reflecting the global community’s concern for the well-being of Colombians. Local authorities have also taken steps to ensure public safety, including halting flights at airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura until structural inspections are completed. Emergency services continue to operate under high pressure, balancing rescue operations with the need to stabilize the situation. As the search for survivors continues, the focus remains on minimizing further loss of life and ensuring the long-term recovery of affected communities.
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