Colombia Earthquake Kills 132, Injures Over 700; Curfews Imposed

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake has devastated parts of Colombia, leaving at least 132 people dead and over 700 injured, according to the Association of Colombian Municipalities (Asocapitales).

The cities of Pereira, Cali, Quibdo, Manizales, and Armenia experienced the most significant damage and loss of life. Pereira alone reported 60 fatalities. Authorities have declared red alerts and imposed curfews in these areas due to safety concerns and to facilitate rescue operations.

Search and rescue efforts are underway, with concerns mounting as 188 people have been reported missing. In Cali, the country's third-largest city, roads have collapsed, and 10 hospitals are non-operational. Rescue teams from the capital, Bogota, and Medellin have been dispatched to assist. Quibdo and Manizales are experiencing disruptions to water, electricity, telecommunication, and transportation services.

Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder announced a curfew to prevent looting and ensure the safety of emergency responders. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) located the epicenter near San Jose del Palmar in western Colombia. The earthquake was also felt in Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama, causing partial building collapses and damage to a cathedral and an airport in Venezuela.

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We have declared a curfew to prevent looting and ensure that emergency and rescue teams can carry out their work more safely and quickly.