Colombia Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 224 as Search for Survivors Continues

The death toll from a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that ravaged western Colombia has surged to 224, local authorities confirmed Tuesday, as rescue efforts intensify to find survivors amidst the widespread destruction. The quake, the strongest to hit the South American nation in decades, struck the heart of Colombia's coffee-growing region early Monday, reducing multi-story buildings to rubble in cities such as Pereira and Cali.

Emergency teams, bolstered by police, soldiers, and volunteers, have been working tirelessly through the night, using excavators and their bare hands to sift through debris. Rescuers have reported detecting sounds and signs that suggest survivors may still be trapped deep within the wreckage. "We still have a big window of time. We have approximately 24 more hours to have hope of life," said Jose Fernando Usma, head of search and rescue for the Colombian Red Cross's Quindio branch.

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We still have a big window of time. We have approximately 24 more hours to have hope of life.

Cali, a major city with a population of 2.2 million, has reported at least 95 fatalities. The devastation left many buildings precariously leaning or completely destroyed, forcing residents into the streets. The city's hospitals also suffered damage, with the collapse of top floors in one facility trapping patients and forcing hundreds more to be treated outdoors amidst the rubble. Carmen Yasmin Garcia, a local volunteer, described the desperate efforts to free people and a dog from a collapsed building, highlighting the urgent need for more assistance.

Pereira reported 72 deaths, while neighboring Valle del Cauca registered 38 fatalities. The destruction in Pereira was extensive, with entire residential blocks reduced to piles of concrete and twisted steel. Social media videos captured the violent shaking of the city's airport, with ceiling collapses occurring as people sought shelter. The most remote province, Choco, closest to the epicenter, recorded 13 deaths. In response to reports of looting, President Abelardo De La Espriella announced the deployment of 1,000 security force members to Cali, where curfews have been implemented alongside Pereira.

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A moment ago there was scratching, but now we can’t hear anything. We still have faith that the dog is alive and we can get these people out. We need people with sticks and spades; the more people lending a hand, the better.