At Least 132 Dead After Powerful Earthquake Hits Colombia
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Columbia’s Chocó province on Monday, August 10, killing at least 132 people, damaging hundreds of buildings and leaving many trapped under debris.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at 7:34 a.m. local time. The epicenter of the incident was near San José del Palmar, a community with a population of 5,000. The tremor was felt across western Colombia and neighboring countries of Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama.
Colombia’s President, Abelardo de la Espriella, declared a national emergency and ordered emergency services to prioritize search-and-rescue operations and assistance for affected communities.
The country’s Geological Service described the quake as the strongest recorded “in the 21st century.” De La Espriella said around 1,600 buildings were damaged, with 61 buildings being completely destroyed. The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, adding to concerns among residents and emergency workers.
According to data from the Colombian Association of Capital Cities, at least 570 people were injured as of Monday evening. Officials have warned that the number of casualties is expected to rise as rescue teams reach more affected areas and assess reports of individuals trapped under collapsed buildings.
The earthquake has prompted international offers of assistance, with countries and humanitarian organizations providing emergency support. The U.S. State Department announced on Monday night that it would provide 15.5 million dollars for emergency shelter, food and other aid. Other Latin American countries have also lined up to help. President of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, offered personnel and equipment for search-and-rescue efforts.
“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,” President of Colombia, De La Espriella said.
