Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 240, over 1,300 injured

A devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake has struck western Colombia, leaving at least 240 people dead and more than 1,300 injured, according to the Association of Mayors. The seismic event, which occurred Monday, has caused significant destruction, with 165 buildings collapsing across several major cities.

The hardest-hit areas include Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdó, located in the western part of the country. Pereira, situated in the Eje Cafetero region, has reported at least 72 fatalities and suffered extensive damage, including a near-total loss of electricity. The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, an area difficult to access due to damaged roads, according to the International Red Cross.

Residents described scenes of chaos and desperation as the earthquake struck. Juana Marín, 25, spoke of searching through debris in Pereira, while law student Wilmer Cuesta recounted people fleeing their homes in Quibdó. The governor of Chocó confirmed at least 14 deaths in the region, with four people still missing.

This earthquake is the worst to hit Colombia in this century, evoking memories of the 1999 earthquake that claimed nearly 1,200 lives in the coffee-growing zone. President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a state of emergency and pledged a coordinated rescue operation. Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sorrow over the catastrophe, offering prayers for the victims.