Devastating 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Claims 132 Lives in Colombia

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck Colombia on Monday morning, leading to significant destruction and a tragic loss of life. According to the Colombian Association of Capital Cities, a non-profit organization, the death toll has reached at least 132, with 483 individuals reported injured. Authorities caution that this number could increase as rescue operations are ongoing, with many feared trapped beneath the debris of collapsed buildings.

The quake, which occurred at 7:34 AM local time, had its epicenter near the village of San José del Palmar, located in the Chocó province. Major cities such as Cali, Pereira, Quibdó, and Manizales experienced severe damage, and tremors were felt as far away as neighboring Ecuador and Panama. This earthquake stands as the most powerful recorded in Colombia this century, according to the country’s Geological Service, and was accompanied by several aftershocks, exacerbating the situation.

In the wake of this disaster, newly sworn-in President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting affected citizens. He stated, “We aren’t going to leave people alone. They are in our hearts, and we are going to tend to people with our full determination.” Hospitals across five cities have been placed on high alert, and a nighttime curfew has been enforced in Cali to maintain order during the crisis.

With six airports suspending operations, rescue and relief efforts are hindered, complicating the situation for many families and communities. In the international arena, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to offer assistance. The focus now turns to recovery and rebuilding efforts in the wake of this devastating natural disaster.

The impact of the earthquake on Colombia’s infrastructure and communities will require extensive support and resources. As the nation grapples with this calamity, solidarity from the international community will be crucial in providing aid and helping those affected rebuild their lives.

Source: scroll.in