El Salvador sends humanitarian aid to Colombia after devastating earthquake
The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, announced that his nation will send a significant shipment of humanitarian aid to Colombia, following the powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the South American country this Monday. The aid, which amounts to 100 tons, will be transported in two cargo planes to provide support to the families affected by the seismic movement.
According to the information provided by the Salvadoran president, the first plane will depart tonight, while the second is scheduled to take off on Wednesday. This logistics operation responds to a specific request from the Colombian government, which prioritized the receipt of basic supplies over rescue personnel.
The Government of Colombia has requested humanitarian aid solely in the form of supplies to assist the families affected by the earthquake, as their rescue teams, medical personnel, and other emergency units are already deployed and addressing the situation.
Nayib Bukele, President of El Salvador
Impact and figures of the disaster
The earthquake, which had its epicenter in San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, has left a devastating scene in various regions, especially in Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, and Chocó. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella shared the most recent official figures following the tragedy:
- 181 people deceased nationwide.
- 2,595 injured reported.
- 195 citizens missing.
- 1,136 homes destroyed and more than 8,000 damaged.
- 48 buildings collapsed and 807 educational centers with structural damage.
Valle del Cauca remains the area with the highest number of victims, accounting for 130 of the deaths, 95 of which correspond to the city of Cali. Given the magnitude of the emergency, the government of El Salvador has reiterated its willingness to continue collaborating with Colombian authorities as required by the evolution of the situation in the affected areas.
The Salvadoran president concluded his message by sending a message of solidarity to the Colombian people, wishing strength for the families who have lost their loved ones and for those who have been affected by this natural phenomenon.
