Colombia Earthquake: Search Continues for Hundreds of Missing as Death Toll Rises

Professional rescuers and volunteers are continuing their search in Colombia for hundreds of people missing since a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck on Monday. The quake, the deadliest in Colombia this century, has left a landscape described by the new president as "apocalyptic."

Hope for survivors is dwindling as the search enters its sixth day, with the smell of decomposition pervading the hardest-hit areas. Heavy machinery has begun clearing debris in locations where the possibility of survivors has been ruled out. Funerals are now being held across the affected regions.

The latest official figures report 287 deaths and nearly 4,000 injuries. Authorities are still searching for 379 individuals. President Abelardo de la Espriella visited affected areas, including Pereira, one of the hardest-hit cities, promising aid, particularly for housing assistance for those displaced.

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The situation is reminiscent of 'the Apocalypse'.

De la Espriella, who took office just a week prior, is facing this immense crisis. In Pereira, the relentless days of searching are taking a toll on rescuers' morale. A priest, Nelson Giraldo, is providing spiritual support to exhausted rescuers. The townspeople are described as silent, with sadness in their eyes. One resident, Hernán Giraldo, held onto hope for his 24-year-old son, Juan Felipe, who was preparing for his wedding, only for his son's body to be found later that afternoon.

In Cali, the country's third-largest city, part of the morgue has collapsed. Bodies are being transported to Palmira, about 30 kilometers away, to a morgue that has had its capacity increased to handle the influx. The solidarity and aid efforts are ongoing amidst the devastation.

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Udin was a tall, sturdy person, and didn't have a gentle face. But Udin was gentle because I met him every day.