- A magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck Colombia with its epicentre in San José del Palmar, in the Choco region, recorded at 82 kilometres deep.
- In Quibdo, four people are reportedly trapped in a collapsed four-storey building following the earthquake.
- At least 20 buildings collapsed in Cali, with people trapped inside, according to Mayor Alejandro Eder via Reuters News Agency.
- Videos on social media show damaged and collapsed buildings, including a cathedral in Manizales that has suffered damage.
- Six airports across the country have halted operations, and President Abelardo De La Espriella has taken charge of the emergency response, ordering a Unified Command Post.
- Officials have reported injuries and severe damage in Quibdo and Pereira, and building evacuations have occurred in several cities as officials assess damage and risk of aftershocks.
A magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia, with its epicenter in San José del Palmar, located in the Choco region, at a depth of 82 kilometers. The tremor was felt across the country and in neighboring Venezuela.1
Reports indicate that at least 20 buildings collapsed in Cali, trapping individuals, including four people in a four-storey building in Quibdo. Videos circulating on social media depict significant damage, including to a cathedral in Manizales.23489
In response to the disaster, President Abelardo De La Espriella, who took office just days prior, has assumed control of the emergency response. He announced the establishment of a Unified Command Post to coordinate recovery efforts and assist those affected. Six airports have suspended operations as officials conduct damage assessments and prepare for potential aftershocks.567
The earthquake has prompted evacuations in several cities, with officials reporting injuries and severe structural damage in Quibdo and Pereira. Mayor Alejandro Eder confirmed the extent of the destruction in Cali, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated rescue efforts.
“The epicentre was in San José del Palmar, Choco region, at 82 km deep, and at least 20 buildings collapsed in Cali, with four people trapped in Quibdo. Six airports halted operations, and the president ordered a Unified Command Post to coordinate aid.”
BBC
