Daijiworld Media Network – Bogota
Bogota, Aug 11: At least 132 people have died and more than 570 others were injured after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, triggering widespread destruction and a large-scale search and rescue operation.
Pereira has emerged as the worst-affected city, recording 60 deaths, according to report, citing the Colombian Association of Capital Cities. Five capital cities have been placed under red alert, while 86 buildings have collapsed and operations at seven airports have been suspended.
President Abelardo de la Espriella said 1,577 residential buildings were damaged, including 37 that were completely destroyed. More than 60 buildings collapsed, while 18 health centres and 52 schools were also damaged.
More than 2,000 people have reportedly been listed as missing, with most cases concentrated in Cali and Pereira. Rescue teams are continuing to search through the rubble for survivors.
The earthquake was recorded at around 7:34 am local time by the US Geological Survey, with its epicentre near San Jose del Palmar in the Choco department, around 280 km west of Bogota, at a depth of 107 km.
Colombia's Geological Service described the quake as the strongest recorded in the country during the 21st century. Several aftershocks have also been reported.
The impoverished Choco department and the Coffee Axis, particularly Risaralda, are among the worst-hit regions. Difficult terrain, dense jungle and limited road connectivity in Choco have made rescue and relief operations challenging.
In Cali, emergency responders are working to rescue people trapped beneath collapsed structures. Sections of a hospital, including its paediatric and neonatal units, were reportedly affected, raising concerns for vulnerable patients.
Tremors were felt across several cities, including Bogota, where alarms sounded and residents evacuated buildings as a precaution.
Choco Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba Curi said injured people had been reported and several buildings suffered severe damage in the regional capital Quibdo. She also warned of possible further aftershocks.
Bogota Mayor Carlos F Galan announced that six collection centres had been established to receive essential supplies such as drinking water, blankets, mats, non-perishable food, hygiene products and first-aid materials for affected communities.
He further said 100 rescuers from Bogota would be sent to the worst-hit areas to support search and rescue operations.
President de la Espriella has convened an emergency committee to coordinate relief efforts and said the government would take all necessary measures to protect people affected by the earthquake.