Rescue teams are working tirelessly in western Colombia to locate survivors following a devastating earthquake that has claimed over 250 lives, according to local authorities. The 7.4-magnitude quake, the strongest in Colombia in many years, wreaked havoc in the country’s coffee-producing region, causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
In the aftermath of the disaster, families anxiously await news of their loved ones amidst the rubble. Rescue efforts in the most affected areas have been ongoing throughout the night, with teams using heavy machinery and even their hands to sift through debris in search of trapped individuals.
Reports indicate that at least 254 people have perished, with hundreds more injured and thousands of homes damaged. The city of Cali witnessed the collapse of parts of buildings, including a hospital where patients were left stranded. Meanwhile, in Pereira, entire residential areas have been reduced to rubble, prompting residents and volunteers to form human chains to assist in the rescue operations.
The earthquake has also caused widespread disruptions to essential services such as electricity, water, and healthcare, particularly in Choco near the epicenter. International aid is starting to pour in, with the United States and the Inter-American Development Bank pledging financial assistance for emergency relief and reconstruction efforts.
As authorities continue to assess the extent of the devastation and the final death toll, communication challenges persist in the worst-hit regions, making it difficult to ascertain the full impact of the disaster.