Colombia Earthquake Death Toll Passes 130 as Rescue Efforts Continue
Rescue workers in western Colombia are racing against time as the death toll from the country's most powerful earthquake in decades has climbed to at least 132. The 7.4-magnitude quake struck late on Monday, toppling buildings and triggering a desperate search for survivors across several cities.
President Abelardo de la Espriella, appointed just three days ago, said from Bogota: 'The national government is maintaining all its capacities deployed to protect lives, assist affected communities and deliver aid to every area that needs it.'
Where Did the Earthquake Hit?
The quake's epicentre was in Colombia's coastal Choco region at a depth of 100 kilometres. Authorities in this impoverished area reported 13 deaths. The nearby city of Pereira was one of the worst-hit areas, with local officials confirming at least 66 fatalities. In Manizales, the tremor crumpled a tower of a beloved cathedral.
'A great many buildings' in the city sustained damage, said administrative worker Jaime Zuluaga, 50. 'Traffic is paralysed and people don't want to go back to their homes for fear of an aftershock.'
What Is the Situation in Cali and Quibdo?
In Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, at least 20 buildings crumbled, trapping people beneath the debris, according to mayor Alejandro Eder. In the provincial capital Quibdo, videos showed more buildings reduced to rubble. Community leader Luis Gregorio Moreno told AFP: 'We are all devastated. At this moment there are reported deaths, dozens of wounded, but what there are most of are missing people.'
How Did Neighbouring Countries Respond?
The quake was felt in Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela, prompting building evacuations in Bogota. Still in their pyjamas, crowds rushed into the streets upon feeling the tremor, AFP reporters noted. Six small airports in western Colombia suspended operations, and the soccer governing body postponed upcoming matches.
What International Assistance Has Been Offered?
The United States is 'closely monitoring the large earthquake that struck Colombia and stands ready to support the people of Colombia,' said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU was 'ready to provide more support' and had already mobilised the Copernicus satellite service to aid rescue operations. Mexico, Ecuador and France also offered assistance.
Latin America is still reeling from two disastrous quakes that struck Venezuela in June, killing more than 6,000 people and causing widespread destruction. The Colombian government has urged calm as rescue efforts continue into a second day.