Deadly 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia
On Monday at 7:34 AM local time, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale hit western Colombia, with its epicenter located in San Jose Del Palmar, Chocó, approximately 400 kilometers from Bogotá. The disaster resulted in significant devastation, resulting in at least 20 fatalities, including 18 confirmed deaths in Pereira and two in Manizales. Mayor Mauricio Salazar labeled the situation as "critical." Ongoing rescue operations are focused on assessing damage and finding those trapped. The quake disrupted communication and transportation systems, hindering relief efforts. In response, the Colombian president announced a state of emergency and promised federal aid for recovery. The global community has expressed condolences and offered support, recognizing the area's susceptibility to earthquakes.
Key facts
- A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning.
- At least 20 people died, with 18 in Pereira and 2 in Manizales.
- The epicenter was in San Jose Del Palmar, Chocó region, about 400 km west of Bogotá.
- The quake occurred at 7:34 AM local time.
- Mayor Mauricio Salazar of Pereira described the situation as 'critical'.
- Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas of Manizales confirmed two deaths in his city.
- The US Geological Survey (USGS) and Colombia's geological service reported the quake.
- Many buildings collapsed, trapping people and causing severe damage.
- The earthquake was felt in Cali, where a man was seen leaving a block of flats.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing, and the death toll may rise.
Entities
Institutions
- US Geological Survey (USGS)
- Caracol Radio
- Blu Radio
- Associated Press
Locations
- Colombia
- Pereira
- Bogotá
- Manizales
- San Jose Del Palmar
- Chocó region
- Cali