Colombia Earthquake: Foreign Ministry confirms no Peruvians affected so far by 7.4 magnitude quake

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, causing an emergency across various regions as rescue and relief efforts continue. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, in the Chocó department.

In response to the seismic event, Peru's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that, as of now, there are no reports of Peruvian citizens being affected. The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with the Peruvian community in Colombia through its consular channels. Peru has expressed solidarity with the Colombian government and its people, extending condolences for the lives lost and continuing to track the evolving situation.

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We remain attentive to the evolution of the emergency and maintain communication with the Peruvian community through our consular channels.

Colombian authorities have reported substantial damage, with at least 1,575 homes damaged and 61 buildings collapsed. The preliminary death toll stands at 111, with 87 individuals injured. The hardest-hit areas include Risaralda, particularly Pereira; Valle del Cauca, especially Cali; and Chocó. Additionally, over 1,400 people have been reported missing by their families via a citizen-created platform. Several health centers were also affected, with a section of the University Hospital in Cali collapsing, trapping five intensive care patients.

Given the scale of the disaster, the Colombian government announced its intention to declare a national emergency to expedite the allocation of resources to the affected zones. Peruvians in Colombia requiring assistance can contact their respective consular offices, with emergency lines available in Bogotá, Cali, Medellín, and Leticia.

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The Peruvian Chancellery expressed its solidarity with the Government and the population of Colombia for the emergency caused by the strong seismic movement.