Colombia earthquake: Rescue efforts continue as death toll climbs

Rescue teams and volunteers are working tirelessly in western Colombia, digging through rubble and collapsed buildings in the wake of a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The tremor, which struck the country's coffee-growing heartland, has already claimed at least 164 lives, and authorities fear the toll will climb as the search for survivors continues.

Cities such as Cali and Pereira have borne the brunt of the destruction. In Cali, multi-story buildings crumbled, leaving at least 85 dead and forcing thousands into the streets. A hospital in the city saw several top floors collapse, trapping patients and leading to the evacuation of hundreds more to a makeshift street-side care area.

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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.

Volunteers like Carmen Yasmin Garcia are on the ground, describing desperate efforts to free trapped individuals and even a dog from a pancaked building. "We still have faith that the dog is alive and we can get these people out," Garcia said, appealing for more hands to help.

Authorities are deploying security forces to Cali amid reports of looting and have implemented curfews in affected cities. President Abelardo De La Espriella, who recently took office, emphasized solidarity, stating, "Here, there are no distinctions or ideological divisions when it comes to defending our people or showing solidarity."

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Our intention is to cooperate in any way necessary. Here, there are no distinctions or ideological divisions when it comes to defending our people or showing solidarity.