Tragedy in Colombia: 7.4 magnitude earthquake leaves devastating toll in Cali and Chocó
Colombia is going through hours of deep anguish following the strong 7.4 magnitude earthquake that shook the country this Monday. President Abelardo de la Espriella confirmed a heartbreaking preliminary toll, with Cali being one of the areas hardest hit by the seismic movement, with a confirmed toll of 35 people dead and nearly 700 injured.
The president, who recently took office, detailed that the infrastructure of the Valle del Cauca capital has suffered severe damage. According to the official report, three hospitals have completely collapsed, while another 18 show structural damage. Likewise, the education sector reports 39 affected centers and the operation of the local airport remains restricted due to the damage suffered by its facilities.
Alarming figures and rescue efforts
The housing crisis in Cali is critical, with approximately 5,000 homes destroyed or significantly damaged. Given the disappearance of 188 people in the city, authorities have intensified rescue efforts. “We already have 228 rescuers in the city of Cali and the canines that will help us in that search for the missing,” stated President De la Espriella after finishing an emergency meeting.
We are deploying all the necessary search and rescue teams to work tirelessly throughout the night and locate those who still remain missing after this hard blow to our nation.
Abelardo de la Espriella, President of Colombia
National impact and epicenter of the earthquake
The epicenter of the earthquake, which occurred at 7:34 local time, was located in the municipality of San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó. In this Pacific coast region, authorities reported 13 deaths, 119 injuries, and five people reported missing.
Although the figures continue to be updated, the Association of Capital Cities of Colombia (Asocapitales) estimates that the number of fatalities nationwide has risen to 132 people. The head of state has maintained an emergency agenda, installing the Unified Command Post in Bogota and touring the critical areas to personally supervise the relief efforts for those affected.
