Earthquake in Colombia: Death Toll Reaches 180, Rescue Operations Continue Amid Rubble
Image source, Reuters
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Following the powerful earthquake on Monday, rescue teams in Colombia are actively searching for survivors trapped in buildings and rubble.
So far, more than 180 deaths have been confirmed, with the majority occurring in the cities of Cali and Pereira.
The earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. Monday, centered near San Jose del Palmar, registering a magnitude of 7.4. Its tremors were felt in neighboring countries including Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. Aftershocks continued through Tuesday.
Although the official death toll stands at 181, local authorities’ data suggests the number could exceed 240.
President Abelardo De la Espriella has declared a national disaster in the country.
Providing an update on the heavily affected city of Pereira on Tuesday, President De la Espriella reported approximately 2,600 injured and nearly 200 reported missing in addition to the fatalities.
He stated that over 1,100 homes have been completely destroyed and more than 8,000 have suffered damage.
From Monday night to Tuesday morning, many residents in cities such as Pereira and Cali spent the night outdoors—some due to the collapse of their homes and others because of fears of further building failures.
Dozens of large buildings across the country have also collapsed.
Curfew Imposed to Prevent Looting
Image source, Reuters
In Cali, a city with a population of about 2.2 million, 95 deaths have been reported. An integrated command post has been established to coordinate rescue efforts.
On Tuesday, Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder reported that 239 people remain trapped under rubble, 949 are injured, and 45 buildings have either fully or partially collapsed.
A hospital’s upper floors collapsed, trapping patients inside.
In the northern area of Cali, a collapsed school in Kalima resulted in the deaths of four children.
A curfew has been imposed in the area to mitigate the risk of looting.
Additional tremors were felt in Cali on Tuesday. According to Colombia’s Geological Service, over 70 aftershocks have occurred since Monday.
The fire department has reported 79 deaths in Pereira.
Hundreds of volunteers are actively involved in clearing rubble and rescuing those trapped.
Fear and Uncertainty
Image source, Reuters
Shortly after the earthquake, residents living near an industrial zone close to Pereira’s airport shared their experiences of shock and fear.
“Movement within the city center is nearly impossible. At least one building collapsed in the main plaza. Buses and trucks have collided with some structures, and residents are terrified of further collapses,” a local said.
“We are all in shock. The situation is extremely dire.”
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, solidarity with the Colombian government and people was expressed, along with ongoing support for rescue and relief efforts.
Spain has reported 164 of its citizens missing, although the Foreign Minister has confirmed that no casualties among them have been reported so far.
The Donald Trump administration, which had supported the Colombian presidential election, announced assistance amounting to $1.55 million USD for Colombia.
Aid offers have also been received from Ecuador, Brazil, El Salvador, and Venezuela.
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