Colombian Government reports that the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck in western Colombia on Monday morning (August 10) has resulted in 132 fatalities and 570 injuries. A total of 32 cities across the country have been severely affected by the disaster. As rescue teams continue their search and rescue efforts, the death toll is expected to rise further.
According to various media reports, the epicenter of the earthquake was near San José del Palmar in Chocó province, with a depth of approximately 107 kilometers. The earthquake affected major cities like Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín, causing buildings to collapse and damaging hospitals and infrastructure. Many people are trapped under the rubble in various cities.
The Director of the Colombian Geological Service stated that this 7.4-magnitude earthquake is the strongest earthquake recorded in the country in “almost a decade,” leading to significant casualties and property damage. Just over the weekend, Colombia’s newly sworn-in President Abelardo De La Espriella officially declared a “state of national disaster” and suspended his scheduled activities to personally oversee the national emergency response efforts. He emphasized the urgent need to rescue those trapped.
Following the earthquake, leaders and foreign ministers from countries in the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East have expressed condolences and pledged humanitarian and search and rescue assistance in solidarity with Colombia.