COLOMBIA EARTHQUAKE — 7.4 MAGNITUDE

COLOMBIA EARTHQUAKE — 7.4 MAGNITUDE

A powerful earthquake has caused widespread devastation across western Colombia, leaving hundreds of people dead and thousands injured.

The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck on August 10, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar in Colombia’s Chocó region. The earthquake was the strongest recorded in Colombia this century, according to Colombian authorities.

The powerful shaking was felt across a large part of the country and was also noticed in neighboring countries, including Ecuador and Panama. Several major cities were affected, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and Quibdó.

Buildings collapsed, homes were damaged and roads and other essential infrastructure were affected. In some areas, electricity and communications were disrupted, making it harder for emergency teams to reach people who needed help.

Cali, one of Colombia’s largest cities, became one of the worst-hit areas. Rescue workers, soldiers, firefighters and local volunteers have been working together to search damaged buildings and look for people who may still be trapped beneath the rubble.

The disaster has also created major challenges in the Chocó region. The area is relatively remote and has limited road access, making transportation and rescue operations more difficult.

As rescue teams continued their work, the number of casualties increased rapidly. By August 13, authorities reported 265 deaths and more than 3,500 injuries. Nearly 500 people were still reported missing. More than 9,550 homes had been destroyed, adding to the humanitarian crisis.

The Colombian government has declared emergency measures and is coordinating rescue, medical assistance and recovery operations. Authorities are also preparing plans to rebuild damaged homes, hospitals, schools and infrastructure.

Rescue teams have been working against time because the chances of finding survivors generally decrease as more time passes after a major building collapse. However, officials have stressed that searches will continue for people who may still be alive beneath the debris.

Across the affected communities, ordinary people have also joined the emergency response. Volunteers have helped provide water, food and other supplies, while blood donation centers have seen people coming forward to support those injured.

The earthquake has left Colombia facing one of its most serious natural disasters in years. For families who have lost loved ones and homes, the recovery could take months or even years.

Rescue and recovery efforts are continuing, while authorities assess the full scale of the damage.