Colombia declares national disaster after deadly earthquake

Colombia's government has declared a "national disaster" following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the country, leaving at least 71 people dead and numerous buildings in ruins. The hardest-hit areas include the coffee region and the southwestern parts of the nation.

The department of Risaralda reported the highest number of fatalities with 40, followed by Valle del Cauca with 27, and four in Chocó, the quake's epicenter. The situation is particularly critical in cities such as Pereira, Cali, Manizales, Quibdó, and Armenia, where casualties, trapped individuals, and damage to hospitals, airports, and public services are widespread.

Regional governor Dilian Francisca Toro described the situation in Valle del Cauca as "serious," noting that approximately 27 people died in the department. She reported significant destruction, with around 80% of buildings in the municipality of El Cairo collapsing. Rescue and evacuation operations are underway, involving firefighters and the army, especially at the Hospital Universitario de Cali where some areas collapsed and people are trapped.

The earthquake occurred at 7:34 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department at a depth of 82 kilometers, according to the Colombian Geological Service. The government's declaration aims to mobilize resources and coordinate relief efforts in the affected regions.