Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Colombia, Killing More Than 100
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, leaving more than 100 people dead and causing widespread destruction across several cities. The earthquake triggered emergency rescue operations as authorities searched damaged buildings for people who may still be trapped under the rubble.
The earthquake struck on August 10, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar in Colombia's Chocó region, according to reports from authorities and international news agencies. The powerful shaking was felt across a broad area, including major cities such as Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales.
More Than 100 People Killed
The death toll has risen rapidly as emergency crews continue assessing the damage. Reuters reported that at least 111 people had been killed, while dozens more were injured. Authorities warned that the number could change as rescue teams reach areas where communications and transportation have been disrupted.
The earthquake caused buildings to collapse and damaged infrastructure in several communities. According to the Associated Press, more than 1,600 buildings were damaged, with dozens completely destroyed.
Cali, one of Colombia's largest cities, was among the areas heavily affected. Hospitals and other critical infrastructure also suffered damage, increasing pressure on emergency services already dealing with large numbers of casualties.
Rescue Teams Search Collapsed Buildings
Emergency workers have been conducting search-and-rescue operations in affected areas. Rescue teams have been using heavy machinery as well as hand tools to search through collapsed structures.
Some communities have faced additional difficulties because of damaged roads and communication problems. The remote and mountainous terrain in parts of western Colombia has made it harder for emergency teams to reach some affected locations.
Authorities are prioritizing areas where residents may still be trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
State of Emergency Declared
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national emergency following the earthquake, allowing authorities to mobilize resources more rapidly for rescue and relief operations.
The disaster represents an early major test for the new government, which had only recently taken office.
Officials have urged residents in affected areas to follow instructions from emergency authorities and avoid entering damaged buildings because of the possibility of further collapses.
Strongest Earthquake of the Century in Colombia
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake has been described as the strongest earthquake recorded in Colombia during the 21st century.
Colombia is located in a seismically active region, where several tectonic plates interact. The country's western regions are particularly vulnerable to powerful earthquakes.
The latest disaster has also revived memories of previous devastating earthquakes in the country, including the deadly 1999 earthquake that struck the Coffee Region.
International Assistance Begins
International support has also started emerging as Colombia deals with the disaster.
The United States announced financial assistance for earthquake relief, while countries including Mexico, Chile and El Salvador offered support to Colombia.
The immediate priority remains finding survivors, treating injured people and providing shelter and essential supplies to communities affected by the earthquake.
What Happens Next?
Authorities are expected to continue search-and-rescue operations while engineers inspect damaged buildings and infrastructure.
Aftershocks are also a concern following a major earthquake, and officials are warning residents to remain cautious around damaged structures.
For thousands of people affected by the disaster, the coming days will focus on rescue, medical treatment, temporary shelter and restoring essential services.
As emergency teams continue working across western Colombia, authorities are still assessing the full scale of the destruction. The final human and economic cost of the earthquake could rise as teams reach more remote communities.
USNewsXpo will continue to follow developments as Colombian authorities release further information about the earthquake, casualties and rescue operations.
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