A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 132 people and injuring more than 570, according to the latest reports. The quake caused widespread destruction across several cities, with buildings collapsing and people feared trapped beneath the rubble.
The earthquake was recorded in the Chocó region, with tremors felt across a large part of the country. Cali, Pereira and Manizales were among the urban areas reporting significant damage. In Pereira, dozens of buildings were reported to have collapsed, while damage was also reported at medical facilities and other critical infrastructure.
Rescue operations were launched immediately as emergency workers searched damaged buildings for survivors. Authorities warned people to stay away from unstable structures amid fears of further collapses and aftershocks.
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national state of emergency and ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to assist with rescue and relief operations. The government also announced measures to support people who have lost their homes in the disaster.
The scale of the destruction has overwhelmed some local services. Airports and other infrastructure in affected areas suffered damage, while emergency teams faced difficult conditions as they tried to reach communities hit hardest by the earthquake. Local authorities also introduced curfews in some cities amid concerns over public safety and looting.
The death toll has risen rapidly as rescue teams reach more affected areas, and officials have warned that the number of casualties could increase further. More than 570 people have been reported injured, with many requiring medical treatment.
The earthquake has triggered a major national rescue effort, with military and emergency personnel working alongside local authorities and volunteers. Families have gathered outside damaged buildings, waiting for news of relatives who may still be missing.
The disaster comes as Colombia faces the enormous challenge of restoring essential services and providing shelter to displaced residents. International assistance has also begun to emerge, with the United States announcing emergency aid for the affected areas.
As search-and-rescue operations continue, authorities are focusing on reaching people trapped under collapsed structures, treating the injured and assessing the full extent of the destruction. With communications and infrastructure disrupted in some areas, officials say the coming hours will be critical for locating survivors and delivering emergency assistance.
